WO1997013407A1

WO1997013407A1 - Trawl system cell design and methods

Info

Publication number: WO1997013407A1
Application number: PCT/US1996/016419
Authority: WO
Inventors: Sherif Safwat; Valentin G. Perevoshchikov
Original assignee: Ocean Trawl Technology Research Co., Inc.
Priority date: 1995-10-13
Filing date: 1996-10-11
Publication date: 1997-04-17
Also published as: EP0859546A2; DK0859546T3; PL326252A1; JP2000510323A; ATE210372T1; ES2170280T3; US6374531B1; CA2234653A1; EP0859546A4; NO316201B1; EP0859546B1; CA2234653C; DE69617990T2; DE69617990D1; US20020053157A1; KR19990064222A; PE20198A1; NO981670D0; CN1200648A; AU708486B2

Abstract

A mesh cell construction which is systemized wherein opposite mesh bars of the rectangularly shaped mesh cell have a common lay direction when viewed in an axially receding direction (either right-handed or left-handed lay) that is opposite to that associated with the remaining opposite mesh bars of such mesh cell. In another aspect, when incorporated in a trawl (13), such cell construction of the invention provides for improved shaping and performance of the trawl (13) wherein the mesh cells of different geometrical locations positioned relative to and about the longitudinal axis of the trawl can be controlled such that resulting trawl panels wings (25) act analogous to a series of mini-wings capable of acting in concert in operation. Such concerted action provides, when the trawl is in motion, outwardly directed force vectors which significantly increase the trawl volume and hence mouth (26) volume while simultaneously decreasing drag.

Description

TRAWL SYSTEM CELL DESIGN AND METHODS

Field ofthe Invention The present invention relates to a cell design used in a trawl system associated with capturing marine life within a body of water, and more particularly to an improved cell design (that by definition is iterated or cloned in varying geometric patterns) providing improved shaping and performance, especially when incoφorated in midwater or bottom trawls of such systems. In one aspect, the invention relates to mesh cell construction for trawls that can be triangular, rectangular and/or hexagonal in cross section (where such rectangular configurations include square cells) and is associated with at least three and preferably four cell (or more) bars in a common plane, with the length of each bar being measured between a pair of normalized transverse, quasi-transverse, longitudinal or quasi- longitudinal spaced-apart knots or equivalent couplers In accordance with the invention, a pair of half mesh bars of each cell are constructed so as to fan out from a common knot or coupler (of the four knots or couplers associated with each quadratic mesh cell). Each mesh bar of such pair is constructed to provide hydrofoil-like characteristics in field operations. Each mesh bar comprises two (or three of more) strands each comprised of filamented synthetic material such as plastic or of a naturally occurring substance, each strand being the product of a conventional manufacturing process. In accordance with the invention, such the strands are constructed to be loosely twisted about a longitudinal axis of symmetry in a direction opposite (not the same) as its mating mesh bar. In addition, the pitch ofthe twist is controlled wherein each mesh bar defines a a range of pitch value, say from 3d to 70d and preferably 5d to 40d where d is the diameter of at least the smaller ofthe twisted strands. In another aspect, each mesh bar comprises a strap of synthetic or natural fibers of either rectangular, or quasi- rectangular cross section, preferably twisted along its longitudinal axis of symmetry whereby in operation the short sides form interchanging leading and trailing edges. In still another aspect, the invention relates to cell construction associated with tow, bridle and breast lines that attach to the trawl and improved performance thereof. Result: rather deep grooves are formed along the length of each cell bar that interact with passing water during operations as explained below. Note in this regard that the invention provides for a cell construction that can be systemized. In the case of a trawl, the opposite mesh bars of any rectangularly shaped mesh cell act as mini-hydrofoils or wings in concert in operations. Such opposite bars (whether formed of a series of twisted strands or of a single twisted strap), are characterized as having a common lay direction when viewed in an axially receding direction (either right-handed or left-handed lay) that is opposite to that associated with the remaining opposite mesh bars of such mesh cell.

When incoφorated in a trawl system, such cell construction of the invention, provides for improved shaping and performance. That is, the cells positioned at different geometrical locations relative to and about the longitudinal central axis of the trawl, can be controlled such that resulting trawl panels, wings, bridle lines, towlines etc., act analogous to a series of mini-hydrofoils capable of acting in concert in operation. Such concerted action provides— hen the trawl is in motion— outwardly directed force vectors which increase— significantly—trawl system performance characteristics including but not limited to overall trawl volume while simultaneously— and suφrisingly— decreasing drag and background noise. Background ofthe Invention

It is well understood that the basic cell of a selected portion of every trawl system net is the unit cell (called cell hereinafter). The selected portions of the trawl system is then built by repeating the basic shape.

It is axiomatic that the ability to predict the overall shape and performance ofthe finished product depends entirely on the shape and structural integrity of that single cell. Heretofore, proper trawl making was a two-step process that involved initial construction of undersized mesh cells, and setting the knots and mesh sizes by the substeps of depth stretching and heat setting involving turning the finished mesh in direction opposite to its natural bent and applying pressure, and then applying heat to set the knots. Materials used in the mesh cell construction can be plastics such nylon and polyethylene but other type of natural occuπing fibers also can be (and have been) used. Single, double (or more) strands make up a thread or twine composed of, say, nylon, polyethylene and/or cotton. Additionally, braided cords, of natural and synthetic materials, as well as rope and cables, have been used. However, the pitch of any braided or twisted thread, twine, cord and/or rope (distance between corresponding points along one ofthe strands constituting one turn thereof) which is analogous to the pitch between corresponding screw threads), has been small. Moreover, modern manufacturing processes use threads, twines, cords, cables or ropes to form mesh cells, and have always produced cells in which twist direction of the individual bars comprising each cell, is always the same. None have proposed the use of differently oriented twist of individual mesh bars ofthe mesh cell in the manner provided by the instant invention.

Even though various Japanese Patent Applications superficially deal with nets having differing twist directions, (see for example, Jap. Pat. Apps. 57-13660, 60-39782 and 61-386), these deal with a contrary goal than that of the instant invention, viz., to a balancing of residual torque forces within the net structure during construction thereof, not to the generation of composite vector forces during actual field operations (via water flow-net shape interaction) for enhancement of net performance. The first-mention Application, for example, states that its puφose is to provide "net legs with different twist directions according to a fixed regular pattern so that torsion and torque of said net legs are mutually canceled" and must generate substantially inconclusive unbalanced forces during operations since the depicted net would lead to a shrinkage in net volume, not increasing net volume as provided by the instant invention.

Summary ofthe Invention The present invention is based on the discovery that individual bars of a cell can be controlled to act as mini-hydrofoils in operation. In one aspect, the invention controls twist direction, either right-handed or left-handed in a receding direction from a knot or equivalent coupler, in a fashion to provide for an improved shaping and performance of resulting trawl system.

In one aspect, the invention relates to mesh cell construction for trawls that can be triangular, rectangular and/or hexagonal in cross section (where such rectangular configurations include square cells) and is associated with at least three and preferably four cell (or more) bars in a common plane, with the length of each bar being measured between a pair of normalized transverse, quasi-transverse, longitudinal or quasi- longitudinal spaced-apart knots or equivalent couplers. In accordance with the invention, a pair of half mesh bars of each cell are constructed so as to fan out from a common knot or coupler (of the four knots or couplers associated with each quadratic mesh cell). Each mesh bar of such pair is constructed to provide hydrofoil-like characteristics in field operations. Each mesh bar comprises two (or three or more) strands comprised of filamented synthetic material such as plastic or naturally occurring substance, each strand being the product of a conventional manufacturing process. In accordance with the invention, such the strands are constructed to be rather loosely twisted about a longitudinal axis of symmetry in direction that is opposite (not the same) direction as its mating mesh bar. In addition, the pitch ofthe twist is controlled wherein each mesh bar defines a range of pitch values, say from 3d to 70d with 5d to 40d being preferred where d is the diameter of at least the smaller ofthe twisted strands. In additio, each mesh bar can comprise a strap of synthetic or natural fibers of rectangular, quasi- rectangular cross section, preferably twisted along its longitudinal axis of symmetry whereby in operation the short sides form interchanging leading and trailing edges. In still another aspect, the invention relates to cell construction associated with tow, bridle and breast lines that attach to the trawl and improved performance thereof. Result: rather deep grooves are formed along the length of each cell bar that interact with passing water during operations as explained below. Note in this regard that the invention provides for a cell construction that can be systemized. In the case of a trawl, the opposite mesh bars of any rectangularly shaped mesh cell act as mini-hydrofoils or wings in concert in operations. Such opposite bars (whether formed of a series of twisted strands or of a single twisted strap), are characterized as having a common lay direction when viewed in an axially receding direction (either right-handed or left-handed lay) that is opposite to that associated with the remaining opposite mesh bars of such mesh cell.

When incoφorated in a trawl system, such cell construction of the invention, provides for improved shaping and performance. That is, the cells positioned at different geometrical locations relative to and about the longitudinal central axis ofthe trawl, can be controlled such that resulting trawl panels, wings, bridle lines, towlines etc., act analogous to a series of mini-hydrofoils capable of acting in concert in operation. Such concerted action provides— hen the trawl is in motion— outwardly directed force vectors which increase— significantly— trawl system performance characteristics including but not limited to overall trawl volume while simultaneously— and suφrisingly— decreasing drag and background noise.

Definitions

MESH is one ofthe openings between threads, ropes or cords of a net;

MESH CELL means the sides of a mesh and includes at least three sides and associated knots or equivalent couplers oriented in space. For a quadratic cell a longitudinal working plane bisects the knots or couplers and sides and defines a rectangular (including square) cross section with four sides and four knots or couplers. For a triangular cell, the longitudinal working plane defines a triangular cross section with three sides and three knots or couplers. For a hexagonal cell, the longitudinal working plane defines a hexagonal cross section with six sides and six knots or equivalent couplers; MESH BARS means the sides of a mesh cell;

CELL means a construction unit of a trawl, net or the like and includes both a mesh cell relating to enclosable sides ofthe mesh ofthe trawl or net itself, as well as to bridle, breast and tow lines used in transport ofthe trawl or net through a water column to gather marine life.

CELL BAR means both the sides of a mesh cell and the elements that make up the bridle, breast and tow lines.

RIGHT- AND/OR LEFT-HANDINESS IN A RECEDING DIRECTION along a cell bar relates to the establishment of a central axis ofthe trawl, net or the like for which the cell associated with the cell bar relate, then with a normalized imaginary giant stick figure positioned so that his feet intersect said central axis but rotatable therewith and his back positioned to first intersect the velocity vector ofthe moving trawl, net or the like associated with cell, determining right- and/or left- handiness of the cell bar using the location of either of right or his left arm ofthe such giant stick figure irrespective ofthe fact that the cell bar position relative to the central axis may be either above, below or offset therefrom, wherein the giant figure always rotates about the central axis and his arms penetrate through the cell bar.

HALF OF MESH CELL means one-half of the cell of the invention is defined by a transverse working plane normal to the longitudinal plane that passes through the centroid of each mesh cell. For the quadratic cell, the transverse working plane passes through two transverse knots or couplers and forms the base ofthe half mesh cell and each half mesh cell includes a central knot or coupler and two mesh bars consisting of two mesh bars. Each mesh bar comprises a thread having hydrofoil characteristics in operation.

THREAD or MESH BAR are equivalent mesh units and is composed of, in accordance with the invention, of synthetic or natural fibers having hydrofoil-like characteristics in field operation. Firstly, a thread can comprise two strands twisted along the longitudinal axis of symmetry in a loose fashion, say where the pitch is in a range of 10d-70d where d is the diameter of the larger of the strands or where d is their diameters if the same. Or secondly, a thread can comprise a strap of solid geometric configuration, say composed of fibers having hydrofoil-like characteristics in operation.

STRAP is a flexible element of synthetic or natural fibers that forms a mesh bar, the strap having a cross section that is generally rectangular or can be quasi-rectangular with rounded short sides and elongated long sides with or without camber. In operation, the strap acts as a hydrofoil, preferably twisted along its longitudinal axis wherein the short sides form interchanging leading and trailing edges. Or where the strap is not twisted, the long sides can be shaped relative to each to provide a pressure differential therebetween resulting in hydrofoil-like effects.

PRODUCT STRAND includes the synthetic or natural fibers or filaments used to form the construction unit of the invention which is preferably but not necessarily the product of a conventional manufacturing process, usually made of nylon, polyethylene, cotton or the like twisted in common lay direction. Such strand can be twisted, plaited, braided or laid parallel to form a sub-unit for further twisting or other use within a mesh bar or a cell bar in accordance with the invention.

NET is a meshed arrangement of threads that have been woven or knotted or otherwise coupled together usually at regular intervals or at intervals that vary usually uniformly along the length ofthe trawl.

TRAWL is a large net generally in the shape of a truncated cone including bridle lines and like means to keep its mouth open and towlines to enable same to be trailed through a water column or dragged along a sea bottom to gather marine life including fish.

CODEND is a portion of a trawl positioned at the trailing end thereof and comprises a closed sac-like terminus in which the gathered marine life including fish are trapped. FRAME is a portion of the larger sized meshes of a net or trawl upon which is overlaid (and attached by a binding) a netting of conventional twist.

PANEL is one of the sections of a trawl and is made to fit generally within and about frames shaped by riblines offset from the longitudinal axis of symmetry ofthe trawl.

PITCH is the amount of advance in one turn of one strand twisted about another strand (or strands) when viewed axially. Or common advance of the twist ofthe strap along its axis of symmetry.

LAY is the direction in which the strands or the strap wind when viewed axially and in a receding direction.

INTERNAL LAY OR TWIST is the direction of synthetic or natural fibers comprising each product strand, is wound when viewed axially and in a receding direction.

INTERNAL BRAID describes the method of formation of a particular product strand.

TOW LINE comprises a cable, rope or the like that connects a vessel at the surface of a body of water with the trawl, net or the like. Such connection can bia via a trawl door and thence through a bridle to the frontropes attached at the mouth of the trawl, net or the like. In the absence of doors, the tow line can connect directly to a bridle. A vessel or trawler usually employs two towline, one positioned at the portside and one nearer the starboard side.

FRONTROPE(S) is a term that includes all lines located at perimeter edge of the mouth of the trawl, net or the like, such as headrope, footrope ( or bottomrope) and breast lines. The frontropes have a number of connections relative to each other and to the bridle lines.

BRIDLES relates to lines that intersect the frontropes and attach to the tow lines. For a particular port or starboard tow line, a pair of bridles extend from a common connection point therewith, back to the frontropes.

TRAWL SYSTEM is a term that includes the trawl, net or the like in association with the tow lines therefor as well as the frontropes and bridles lines

Brief Description ofthe Drawings

FIG 1 is a illustrative side view of a mid-water trawl being towed by a vessel and indicates that the trawl system of the invention can include the trawl, the tow lines, the bridles and the frontropes, FIG. 2 is another view of a trawl of FIG 1 disconnected from the towing apparatus and vessel,

FIG 3 is a fragmentary enlargement of a mesh cell ofthe trawl of FIG 2,

FIGS 4-7 are top views of a work station havmg a table, reel, post and for producing a looped segment ofthe invention, FIG. 8 is a top view of the segment of FIGS 4-7 after a counterclockwise twist has been applied;

FIG 9 is a top view of another segment produced from FIGS 4-7 after a clockwise twist has been applied,

FIG. 9a is top view of another work station for producing a torque-free segment, FIG. 9b is a top view of the segment of FIG 9a after a counterclockwise twist has been applied but before release from the work station,

FIG 9c is a top view of the segment of FIG 9b after release from the work station,

FIG 9d is a top view of a mating segment after a clockwise twist has been applied in the manner ofthe work station of FIG. 9a, FTGS. 9e is a top view of first and second pairs of the segments of FIGS. 9c and 9d produced by the method of FIG. 9a placed in a X-pattern illustrating the formation ofthe mesh cell ofthe invention;

FIG. 10 is a top view of sets of the segments of FIGS. 8 and 9 placed in an X-pattem illustrating the formation ofthe mesh cell ofthe invention;

FIG. 11 is a force diagram of hydrodynamic forces acting on the mesh cells of the invention in operation;

FIG. 12 is a section taken along line 12-12 of FIG. 2,

FIG. 13 is a section akin to that depicted in FIG. 12 in which the bottom panel comprising the mesh cells of the invention has been inverted so that its resultant hydrodynamically created forces are directed inwardly toward the axis of symmetry of the trawl;

FIG. 14 is also a section akin to that shown in FIG. 13 in which bottom panel is composed of mesh cells constructed in accordance with the prior art, i.e., the cells are formed of threads ofthe same twist;

FIG. 15 is another top view of other sets of segments of FIGS. 8 and 9 placed in an X-pattem illustrating an alternate method of forming the mesh cell ofthe invention;

FIG. 15a is another top view of segments of FIG. 15 after a central knot and twisting thereof has occurred; FIG. 16 is yet another top view of yet other sets of the segments of FIGS. 8 and 9 placed in an X-pattem illustrating yet another alternate method of forming the mesh cell ofthe invention;

FIG. 17 is still yet another top view of yet other sets of segments of FIGS. 8 and 9 placed in an X-pattem illustrating yet another alternate method of forming the mesh cell ofthe invention; FIG. 18 is yet still another top view of yet still other sets of segments of FIGS. 8 and 9 placed in an X-pattem illustrating yet still another altemate method of forming the mesh cell ofthe invention;

FIG. 19 is yet still another top view of yet still other sets of segments of FIGS. 8 and 9 placed in an X-pattem illustrating yet still another altemate method of forming the mesh cell ofthe invention;

FIG. 20 is yet still another top view of yet still other sets of segments of FIGS. 8 and 9 placed in an X-pattem illustrating yet still another altemate method of forming the mesh cell ofthe invention; FIG. 21 is yet still another top view of yet still other sets of segments of FIGS. 8 and 9 placed in an X-pattem illustrating yet still another altemate method of forming the mesh cell ofthe invention;

FIG. 22 is yet still another top view of yet still other sets of segments of FIGS. 8 and 9 placed in an X-pattem illustrating yet still another altemate method of forming the mesh cell ofthe invention;

FIG. 23 is yet still another top view of yet still other sets of segments of FIGS. 8 and 9 placed in an X-pattem illustrating yet still another altemate method of forming the mesh cell ofthe invention;

FIG. 24 is a fragmentary perspective view of the sets of segments of FIG. 23 further modified to provide an incremental hydrodynamic force during operations;

FIG. 24a is a detailed akin to FIG. 24 showing an altemate mesh bar construction using braided (not twisted) strands);

FIG. 24b is also a detailed akin to FIG. 24 showing a combination of braided and twisted strands; FIG. 24c is a detailed view of another mesh bar construction using a combination of first and second pairs of twisted strands in which each pair comprises first and second strands twisted each other and in which the first pair is later twisted about the other pair;

FIG. 25 is yet still another top view of yet still other sets of segments of FIGS. 8 and 9 placed in an X-pattem illustrating yet still another altemate method of forming the mesh cell ofthe invention;

FIG. 26 is yet still another top view of yet still other sets of segments of FIGS. 8 and 9 placed in an X-pattem illustrating yet still another altemate method of forming the mesh cell ofthe invention; FIG 27 is a top view of a series of altemate mesh cells ofthe invention in which each mesh cell is of a triangular cross section in which the bases thereof are parallel to the axis of symmetry of the group of altemate mesh cells and the apexes are centered along the base of an adjoining cell,

FIG. 28 is another top view of another group of altemate mesh cells of the invention in which each mesh cell is of a triangular cross section in the bases thereof are parallel to the axis of symmetry ofthe group and wherein the bases are formed of larger diametered rope for better load carrying capability;

FIG. 29 is another top view of still another group of altemate mesh cells of the invention in which each mesh cell is of a triangular cross section but is formed of a single strap of material of rectangular cross section in which the bases thereof are substantially parallel to the axis of symmetry ofthe group;

FIG 30 is yet another top view of yet still another group of altemate mesh cells of the invention in which each mesh cell is of a hexagonal cross section in which the bases thereof are substantially parallel to the axis of symmetry ofthe group; FIG. 31 is a top view ofthe trawl of FIGS. 1 and 2 modified to provide a netting of conventional design covering mesh cells constructed in accordance with the invention; FIG 32 is a fragmentary perspective view of yet another trawl system design of the invention including sub-headrope and sub-footrope assemblies,

FIG 32a is a fragmentary detail of another sub-headrope assembly of the trawl system of FIG 32 illustrating another cell construction, FIG 32b is a fragmentary detail of another sub-footrope assembly of the trawl system of FIG 32 illustrating yet another cell construction,

FIG 33 is yet another top view of an alternative mesh cell in which the mesh bars include a rectilinearly disposed cylindrical first strand about which a second strand seφentines, FIG 34 is an enlarged detail taken along line 34-34 of FIG 33,

FIG 35 is a top view of another alternative mesh cell in which the mesh bars include a rectilinearly disposed cylindrical first strand about which a second strand seφentines,

FIG. 36 is an enlarged detail taken along line 36-36 of FIG 35, FIG 37 is a top view of still anther alternative mesh cell in which a rectilinearly disposed cylindrical first strand about which a second strand (of reduced diameter) seφentines,

FIG 38 is an enlarged detail taken along line 38-38 of FIG 37,

FIG 39 is an illustrative side view of trawl system in accordance with the invention,

FIG 40 is a top view of the trawl of the trawl system of FIG 39 disconnected from the towing vessel,

FIG 41 is a fragmentary enlargement of a mesh cell ofthe trawl of FIG. 40,

FIG 42a is a section taken along line 42a-42a of FIG 40, FIG 42b is a detail section akin to FIG 42a showing an alternative embodiment, FIG. 42c is a detail section akin to FIG. 42a showing another alternative embodiment;

FIG 42d is a detail view— slightly enlarged— of altemate connector for the mesh cell of FIG. 41; FIG. 42e is a section taken along line 42e-42e of FIG. 42d;

FIG. 43 is a section taken along 43-43 of FIG.40;

FIG. 44 is another fragmentary enlargement of an altemative mesh cell of the invention;

FIG. 45 is a section taken along line 45-45 of FIG. 44; FIG. 46 is yet another fragmentary enlargement of another altemative mesh cell ofthe invention;

FIG. 47 is a section taken along line 47-47 of FIG. 46;

FIG. 48 is a section taken along line 48-48 of FIG. 46;

FIG 49 is a section taken along line 49-49 of FIG. 46; FIG. 50 is a graph of signal noise versus time of a twisted stranded mesh cell based on experimental evidence as compared with a conventional uni-twisted cell of the prior art;

FIG. 51 is a fragmentary enlargement of yet another altemate mesh cell of the invention; FIG. 52a is a detail view of an altemative connection for the mesh cell of

FIG. 51;

FIG. 52b is a section taken along line 52b-52b of FIG. 51a;

FIG. 53 is right side view of the trawl system of the invention showing one embodiment of the starboard tow line of the trawl system of the invention in towing contact with a starboard frontropes ofthe trawl; FIG 54 is left side view of the trawl system of the invention showing the embodiment of FIG 53 in which the port tow line ofthe trawl system ofthe mvention in towmg contact with port frontropes ofthe trawl, is depicted,

FIG 55 is a fragmentary side view ofthe embodiment of FIGS 53, 54, FIG 56 is a fragmentary top view ofthe embodiment of FIGS 53, 54,

FIG 57 is nght side view of the trawl system of the invention showing another embodiment of the starboard tow hne of the trawl system of the mvention in towing contact with a starboard frontropes ofthe trawl,

FIG 58 is left side view of the trawl system of the invention showing the embodiment of FIG 57 in which the port tow hne ofthe trawl system ofthe invention m towmg contact with port frontropes ofthe trawl, is depicted,

FIG 59 is a fragmentary side view ofthe embodiment of FIGS 57, 58, and

FIG 60 is a fragmentary top view ofthe embodiment of FIGS 57, 58 Detailed Descπption ofthe Preferred Embodiment Referπng to FIG 1, there is shown a towing vessel 10 at the surface 11 of the ocean 12 towmg a mid- water trawl 13 ofthe ofthe trawl system 9 ofthe mvention The trawl 13 is positioned between the surface 11 and the ocean bottom 14 The trawl 13 can be connected to the towmg vessel 10 m many different configurations and the one chosen mcludes a mam towmg hne 18 connected through door 19, towmg bπdles 20 and mini bπdles 21, 22 A seπes of weights 23 is attached to minibπdle 22 Likewise, the shape and pattem of the trawl 13 can vary as is well known in the art As shown, the trawl 13 shown mcludes wings 25 for better herdmg open at mouth 26 The wings 25 are seen to define a mesh size that is larger than that used to form mid-portion jacket 27, intermediate portion jacket 28 or codend 29 FIG 2 illustrates the trawl 13 of FIG 1 m more detail As shown, the wing 25 includes a series of mesh cells 30 of rectangular cross section that is part of a panel 31 offset from axis of symmetry 32 of the trawl 13. The trawl 13 includes meshes 33 of a selected size determined by the length between adjacent knots or equivalent couplers 34. The mesh cells 30 are of a general rectangular cross section that is repeated through the longitudinal and lateral scope ofthe trawl 13.

As shown in FIG. 3, the mesh cells 30 each have a longitudinal axis of symmetry 30a parallel to the axis of symmetry 32 of the trawl 13 and are formed of a series of threads 35 comprising first and second product strands 36, 37. As explained in more detail below, the product strands 36, 37 of each mesh cell 30 are twisted about a common axis of symmetry 38 either in one of two lay directions: clockwise or counterclockwise as viewed axially along longitudinal axis of symmetry 38 and in a receding direction established at the mouth 26 ofthe trawl 13 (FIG. 1).

FIGS. 4, 5, 6 and 8 shows how a given segment of thread 35 is formed.

As show, a single strand 40 that is the product of a conventional manufacturing process as well as has termini 41, is formed in a loop 42 after which the termini 41 are permanently attached together to form a spliced region 42a. Thereafter, ends 43 of the loop 42 are attached between a fixed post 45 and a reel 46 located on a table 44. The reel 46 has a handle 47 capable of providing rotation to a spindle 48 attached to one end 43 of the loop 42 Result: when the handle 47 is rotated in a counterclockwise direction as indicated by arrow 49a, the loop 42 becomes twisted to form a counterclockwise lay segment 50 of thread 35, wherein segment 50 has a length Ll measured between the ends 43 and is composed of the first and second strands 36, 37 previously mentioned wound in a counterclockwise lay direction (FIG. 8). Thereafter, the method is repeated except that the handle 47 is rotated in a clockwise direction (FIG. 7) wherein a new segment 51 (FIG. 9) is provided having a length Ll measured between ends 52, 53 and of course is composed of the strands 36', 37' twisted in a clockwise direction, i.e. in a direction opposite to that of the segment 50 composed of strands 36, 37. Note that the pitch Po ofthe segments 50 and 51 are the same and is in a range of 3d to 70d where d is the diameter ofthe strands 36, 37, 36', 37'.

Note that the methods depicted in FIGS. 5-9 produces segments 50, 51. Each segment 50 or 51, after twisting has occuπed, has turns which contain residual torque. Such torque can be balanced by conventional thermal setting techniques, however.

But a better method has been discovered in which the large loops 42 (as depicted in FIG. 5-9) are eliminated prior to the twisting process to permit the formation of torque-free segments. Such method is shown in FIG 9a.

As shown in FIG. 9a, two ( say first and second) strands 40' are placed side-by- side of each other across a long table 44'. Each of strands 40' have separate near and far termini 41' and 41". Each near and far termini 41', 41" comprises first and second terminus positioned side-by-side, i.e., so they are parallel to each other. Then the parallel positioned near termini 41' at the near ends ofthe first and the second strands 40' and 40" are formed into mini loops 56. These mini loops 56 attach to the respective opposed T- arms 48a ofthe spindle 48 as shown in FIG. 9b. The opposed parallel far termini 41" of the same first and second strands 40' and 40" are each then attached to a series of in-line conventional barrel swivels 57a (such as used in removing torque in fishing lines and purchasable at any sporting goods store) and thence through a second residual strand 57b to a separate fixed post 45' attached at the far end ofthe table 44'. Then with rotation of the spindle 48 in a first direction, the first and second strands 40' and 40" twisted together, while the residual strands 57b attached thereto, are not so wound because of the action of the barrel swivels 57a. After the mini loops 56 at the near termini 41' of the first and second strands 40' and 40" (at the spindle 48) are removed from contact with the T-arms 48a as are the far termini 41" from the barrel swivels 57 followed by the formation of mini loops similar in shape to the mini loops 56 for the near termini 41', the result is segment 59a having a length Ll and a pitch Po in the range precisely(?) set forth above, as shown in FIG 9c. That is, a segment 59a twisted in a left-handed or counterclockwise lay direction is formed wherein the resulting turns have no or substantially minimum residual torque. Hence thermal setting is unneeded. Thereafter, the method is repeated but rotation of the spindle 48 being in an opposite direction as shown, producing segment 59b of FIG. 9d having a length Li and a pitch Po where Po has a range of values as previously set forth. Further iteration of the method produces further pairs of segments 59c and 59d which can then be assembled together in a X-pattem as shown in FIG. 9e

FIG. 9e shows a X-pattem layout of pairs of segments 59a-59d produced by the method of FIGS. 9a and 9b.

As shown, a pair of left-handed or counterclockwise segments 59a, 59c (each constructed as depicted in FIG. 9c and positioned parallel to each other) is located in the aforementioned X-pattem along with a pair of right-handed or clockwise segments 59b, 59d (each constructed as depicted in FIG. 9d and positioned parallel to each other). The segments 59a-59d are offset from a central axis 32' associated with the axis of symmetry of the trawl to be manufactured and terminate in mini loops 56. The result is the formation of a mesh cell 58 of a quadratic design in accordance with the invention which consists of four mesh bars or sides associated with sub¬ segments 59a', 59b', 59c' and 59d'. Note that the two mesh bars or sides of the cell 58 associated with sub-segments 59b', 59d' are of a right-handed or clockwise lay and positioned parallel to each other while the two mesh bars or sides of the cell 58 associated with sub-segments 59a' and 59c' are of a left-handed or counterclockwise lay and are positioned parallel to each other. Assuming a normalizing receding direction in the manner of arrow A', note that the sub-segments 59a' and 59b' diverge from a common intersection point B' and leading and trailing edges are established for each ofthe sub-segments 59a' and 59b' wherein the leading edge for the sub-segment 59a' when normalized to the receding direction arrow A relative to the central axis 32', reside at a right side ofthe sub-segment 59a' as viewed in the receding direction arrow A' and wherein the leading edge ofthe sub-segment 59b' when normalized to the receding direction arrow A, reside along a left side ofthe sub- segment 59b' as viewed in the receding direction as indicated by arrow A'. Similarly, for the sub-segments 59c' and 59d' converging toward common intersection point B", leading and trailing edges are established for each of the sub-segments 59c' and 59d' wherein the leading edge for the sub-segment 59c' when normalized to the receding direction arrow A relative to the central axis 32', reside at a right side of the sub- segment 59b' as viewed in the receding direction aπow A and wherein the leading edge of the sub-segment 59d' when normalized to the receding direction arrow A', reside along a left side ofthe sub-segment 59d' as viewed in the receding direction as indicated by arrow A'. Further characteristics of the mesh cell 58 is discussed by inference in HG. 10, below.

FIG. 10 shows the layout of a series of the segments 50, 51 to form the mesh cells 30 ofthe invention. As shown, the clockwise lay directed segment 51 and counterclockwise lay direction segment 50 are lain in a X-pattem relative to each other when viewed in plan so that their mid-points 55 are coincident with and make intersection with each other and with the axis of symmetry 30a of the cell 30 to be formed. That is, the segment 50 is positioned such that its end 43a is offset a distance Dl above the axis of symmetry 30a, while end 43b is offset a distance Dl below the axis of symmetry 30a. And the segment 51 is positioned such that its end 52 is offset a distance Dl below the axis of symmetry 30a and its other end 53 is positioned above the axis of symmetry 30a. Thereafter, a second pair of segments 50', 51' are likewise lain in X-pattem relative to each other wherein their mid-points 55' are coincident with and make intersection with each other and with the axis of symmetry 30a. That is, the end 53' of clockwise twisted segment 51' overlays end 43a of counterclockwise segment 50 and is thus, offset a distance Dl above the axis of symmetry 30a. Similarly, end 52' of the segment 51' is offset a distance Dl below the axis of symmetry 30a. In similar fashion, end 43b' of counterclockwise twisted segment 50' overlays end 52 of clockwise twisted segment 51, and thus, is offset a distance Dl below the axis of symmetry 30a. Similarly, the end 43a' of counterclockwise twisted segment 50' is positioned a distance Dl above the axis of symmetry 30a.

As a result, note that resulting mesh cell 30 is rectangularly shaped and begins with a counterclockwise twisted mesh bar 60 and clockwise twisted mesh bar 61 and ends with a clockwise twisted mesh bar 62 and counterclockwise twisted mesh bar 63. Note that additional mesh cells can be formed at the exterior ofthe mesh cell 30 in both longitudinal and transverse directions relative to the axis of symmetry 30a by a continuation ofthe method ofthe invention.

In more detail, counterclockwise mesh bar 60 starts at intersection 55', diverges transversely outward relative to the axis of symmetry 30a and terminates at the intersection of pair ends 43b', 52, a distance Dl below the axis of symmetry 30a. While, mating clockwise twisted mesh bar 61 starts at intersection 55', diverges transversely outward relative to the axis of symmetry 30a and terminates at the intersection of pair ends 43 a, 53' a distance Dl above the axis of symmetry 30a.

Clockwise mesh bar 62 starts at the intersection of pair ends 43 b', 52 a distance Dl below the axis of symmetry 30a, diverges transversely inwardly relative to the axis of symmetry 30a and teπninates at the intersection 55. While, mating counterclockwise twisted mesh bar 63 starts at the intersection of ends 43a, 53', diverges transversely inward relative to the axis of symmetry 30a and terminates at the intersection 55 coincident with the axis of symmetry 30a.

Thereafter, the mesh bars 60, 61, 62, 63 can be permanently attached together at intersections 55', 55 and at pair ends 43a, 53' and 43b', 52 via couplers not shown that are conventional in the art, such as bindings, seams, braids, metallic bands or the like, or the ends 43a, 53' and 43b', 52 may be joined to one another

Note that for the mesh cell 30, a longitudinal working plane Pl is seen to bisect the mesh bars 60-63 and defines a rectangular (including square) cross section. Note that half of the mesh cell 30 means one-half of the cell 30 as bisected by a transverse working plane P2 normal to the longitudinal working plane Pl, such working plane P2 passing through centroid C, such centroid being positioned coincident with the axis of symmetry 30a of the cell 30. For the quadratic mesh cell 30, as shown, the transverse working plane P2 passes through paired ends 43b', 52 and 53', 43a. Such working plane P2 forms the base from which each half of the mesh cell 30 extends. Each of the halves of the mesh cell 30 are positioned back-to-back normalized to the transverse working plane P2. Note that in viewing half of the mesh cell 30, one half faces forward toward the front ofthe trawl 13 (FIG. 1) and such half includes the pair of mesh bars 60, 61 that have been twisted in opposite directions when viewed axially and in a direction receding from intersection 55'. That is, the mesh bar 60 begins at intersection 55' coincident with the axis of symmetry 30a and is twisted in a counterclockwise direction; and the mesh bar 61 also begins at intersection 55' and is twisted in a clockwise direction. Similarly, the remaining half of mesh cell 30 faces backward toward the aft of the trawl 13 (FIG. 1) and includes the pair of mesh bars 62, 63 that have been twisted in opposite directions when viewed axially and in a direction receding from the intersection of paired ends 43a, 53' and 43b', 52 and terminating at intersection 55 coincident with the axis of symmetry 30a. That is, the mesh bar 62 begins at the ends 43b', 52 coincident with the transverse working plane P2 and is twisted in a clockwise direction; and the mesh bar 63 begins at the ends 43a, 53' also coincident with the transverse working plane P2 and is twisted in a counterclockwise direction.

Operational Aspects Now having described the method of forming the mesh cell 30 and the nature of the twist directions of the mesh bars 60-63, it is now believed to be important to show how the twist directions affect operations. In this regard, one-half mesh cell of the invention as depicted in FIG. 10 has been tested in a flume tank by locating the mesh bars 60, 61 between three posts positioned in 3-spot triangular orientation. That is, one post was located slightly forward of the intersection 55' and two remaining posts were positioned adjacent to the ends 53', 43a and 43b', 52. A 1- kilogram weight was positioned at the intersection 55' and its normalized positioned noted. The half of mesh cell 30 was then subjected to vertically distributed water flow at a velocity of 2 meters per second and pictures taken to show the change in position ofthe weight. The results ofthe test are shown below.

Mesh bars 60, 61 Total length = 1.4 meters

Pitch = 35 d where d is 1 centimeter Distance along transverse plane = 1 meter

Lift distance ofthe 1 -kilogram weight within a water stream of 2.0 meter per second = 13.33 centimeters

FIG. 11 shows the engineering reasons for providing lift in the operations ofthe mesh cell 30 ofthe invention. As shown, the mesh 30 is seen to be bisected by longitudinal working plane Pl previously mentioned wherein the plane Pl passes through the common longitudinal axis of symmetry 30a ofthe mesh bars 60, 61, 62 and 63. At the intersection of plane Pl with the forward surface 69 of the mesh bar 60 note that water particles that have a relative velocity vector V in the direction of water flow arrow 71. Since the direction of twist of the mesh bar 60 is counterclockwise, likewise the direction of grooves 70 of mesh bar 60 at the upper surface 72 is parallel of the larger of the component of the relative velocity vector V Similarly the direction of twist of the grooves 73 of mesh bar 61 (being clockwise) is also parallel of the larger of the component of the relative velocity vector V as the grooves 73 initially make contact with water flow arrow 71 at surface 74 of the mesh bar 61 Note in this regard that angle alpha denotes angle of attack of the mesh cell 30, i e , the vertical angle between the direction of water flow arrow 71 and the axis of symmetry 30a of the mesh cell 30, and the angle alpha zero measures the transverse angle between the mesh bar 60 and the direction of water flow arrow 71. When angle alpha zero is between 10 to 70 degrees, the water particles splitting at the intersection of plane Pl with the surfaces 69, 74 of the mesh bars 60, 61 for flow about the mesh bars 60, 61, have large components of force that maximize hydrodynamic forces acting normal to the longitudinal working plane P 1.

That is, due to position, orientation, and direction of grooves 70, 73 relative to the direction of water flow force vector V, the moving water passing over and under the mesh bars 60, 61 acquires both a forward and circular velocity wherein the direction of the circular velocity is dependent upon lay direction of twist ofthe mesh bars 60, 61 and angle alpha zero, the angle of attack of the mesh bar 60 Moreover, with the twist lay direction of mesh bars 60, 61 as shown, the magnitude of the circular velocity component that passes over the upper surfaces ofthe mesh bars 60, 61 is larger than that which passes under the undersurfaces of such mesh bars The result is akin to the production of lift above the wing of an aiφlane in which decreased pressure zones are provided at the upper surfaces of the mesh bars 60, 61 resulting in creation of lift force vector F having a upwardly directed direction that is slightly angled inward toward the axis of symmetry 30a ofthe mesh cell 30 due to the pressure differential at the adjacent surfaces thereof. Resolution of the lift force F provides for a component Fn normal to the longitudinal working plane Pl and tangential component Ft and -Ft that are each inwardly directed towards the axis of symmetry of the mesh cell 30. Note that the normal forces Fn of the mesh bars 60, 61 are thus additive while the tangent forces Ft and -Ft are equal and opposite. Result: if the mesh cell 30 is united with like cells to form a truncated conical trawl 13 as depicted in FIG. 12, such normal forces Fn are additive as a function of radial angle T centered at axis symmetry 32 to substantially increase the interior volume ofthe trawl 13 (see FIG. 12) relative to longitudinal axis of symmetry 32. Likewise, since there is cancellation of all tangential components (Ft, -Ft), drag ofthe trawl 13 is also substantially reduced. Moreover, it is also apparent that the direction ofthe resultant forces acting on the trawl 13, say acting on bottom panel 77 of FIG 13 during operations, could be inverted from that depicted in FIG. 12 whereby the normal forces Fny for the bottom panel 77 have a direction that points inwardly of the trawl 13' toward the axis of symmetry 32' causing outer surface 77a to become convexed relative to the axis of symmetry 32'. Note that the shape of the bottom panel of the trawl 13 could also be changed as depicted in FIG. 14 whereby outer surface 77a' ofthe bottom panel 77' defines a longitudinal plane P6 parallel to the axis of symmetry 32" of the trawl 13". Such a construction occurs by forming the bottom panel 77' of mesh cells constructed in accordance with the prior art, i.e., the cells are formed of strands of the same twist.

Additional Method Aspects FIG. 15 shows an additional method of formation of the segments 50, 51 of FIG. 10. As shown the segments 50, 51 are divided into separate subsegments 50a, 50b and 5 la, 5 lb formed in a X-pattem about a central point 80. Each subsegment is formed of a two strands 81, 82 having loops 83 at exterior and interior end segments 84, 85. The loops 83 having openings 86 large enough to permit passage of selected subsegments through such openings 86 at the intersection ofthe interior end segment 85 of the subsegments to form handing knot 87, see FIG 15a, at the central point 80. Thereafter, the subsegments are twisted about central axes 88a, 88b to provide the orientation depicted in FIG 10. That is, the subsegments 50a, 50b are twisted to form a counterclockwise lay direction as viewed from exterior end segment 84a of subsegment 50a. Likewise, the subsegments 51a, 51b are twisted to form a clockwise lay direction as viewed from exterior end segment 84b of subsegment 51a

FIG 16 shows another method of formation of the segments 50, 51 of FIG 10 As shown the segments 50, 51 are divided into separate subsegments 50a', 50b' and 51a', 51b' formed in a X-pattem about a central point 90 Each subsegment is formed of a two strands 91, 92 having interior ends 93 that fit through radial openings 94 in a collar 95 After attachment say via overhand knot 96, each subsegment is twisted as previously indicated above FIG 17 shows yet another method of formation of the segments 50, 51 of

FIG 10 As shown the segments 50, 51 are divided into separate subsegments 50a", 50b" and 51a", 51b" formed in a X- pattem about a braided or woven intersection segment 97 Each subsegment is formed of a two strands 98, 99 that attach together via intersection segment 97 As shown, all strands 98, 99 are independent of each other Thereafter, each subsegment is twisted as previously indicated above.

FIG 18 shows still another method of formation of the segments 50, 51 of FIG. 10. As shown the segments 50, 51 are divided into separate subsegments 50a'", 50b'" and 51a'", 51b'" wherein subsegment 50a'" is integrally united with subsegment 51a'" and subsegment 50b'" is integrally united with subsegment 51b'" in a X-pattem about separate braided or woven intersection segments 101 Each subsegment is formed of a two strands 102, 103 which are twisted as previously indicated above. FIG. 19 shows yet still another method of formation of the segments 50, 51 of FIG. 10. As shown the segments 50, 51 are divided into separate subsegments 50a'"', 50b"" and 51a"", 51b"" wherein subsegment 50a"" is integrally united with subsegment 51b"" and subsegment 50b"" is integrally united with subsegment 51a"" in a X-pattem about separate braided or intersection segments 104. Each subsegment is formed of two strands 105, 106 which are twisted as previously indicated above.

FIG. 20 shows still yet another method of formation of the segments 50, 51 of FIG. 10. As shown the segments 50, 51 are divided into separate subsegments 50a'"", 50b and 51a""', 51b wherein subsegment 50a'"" is integrally united with subsegment 51a'"" and subsegment 50b'"" is integrally united with subsegment 51b"'" in a X-pattem about twine or metallic connector 107. Each subsegment is formed of a two strands 108, 109 which are twisted as previously indicated above.

FIG. 21 shows still yet another method of formation of the segments 50, 51 of FIG. 10. As shown the segments 50, 51 are divided into separate subsegments 50a""", 50b' and 51a""", 51b""" wherein subsegment 50a""" is integrally united with subsegment 51a'""' and subsegment 50b""" is integrally united with subsegment Sib""" in a X-pattem intertwined as shown to form knot 110. Each subsegment is formed of two strands 111, 112 which are twisted as previously indicated above.

FIG 22 shows still yet another method of formation of the segments 50, 51 of FIG. 10. As shown the segments 50, 51 are divided into separate subsegments 50a"""', 50b""'" and 51a'""", 51b'""" formed in a X-pattem about braided or woven intersection segments 113 formed by opening up strands 114, 115 of subsegments 50a"""', 50b"""' and passing subsegments 51a'""", 51b""'" therethrough, then opening up strands 114, 115 of subsegments 51a"'"", 51b"""^* and passing subsegments 50a""'" and 50b'""", therethrough. Thereafter, each subsegment is twisted as previously indicated above. Note that the load bearing capability of subsegments 51a"'"" and 51b"'"" are maximal. FIG. 23 shows still yet another method of formation of the segments 50, 51 of FIG. 10. As shown the segments 116, 117 are integrally formed in a X-pattem about a seamed intersection segment 118. The segments 116, 117 are each formed of separate strands 119, 120. Thereafter the segments 116, 117 are twisted as previously indicated above. Note in FIG. 24 that each strand 119, 120 can themselves be composed of sub- strands 119a, 119b, 119c and 120a, 120b, 120c. These sub-strands 119a- 120c are provided a twist direction that matches that of segment 116 or 117 into which the former is incoφorated. For example, since the segment 117 of FIG 24 is provided with a clockwise direction, hence the sub-stands 119a- 119c and sub-stands 120a- 120c are also provided with a clockwise direction. Result: there is an increase in the magnitude of hydrodynamic forces generated in operations. That is, an incremental circular vector V5 is created in addition to usual vector force V6 created by water passage through grooves 121 between the sub-strands 11 a- 120c.

FIGS. 24a-24c illustrate variations in the construction of the strands 119, 120 of segment 117 of FIG. 24. In FIG. 24a, the strands 119', 120' are twisted in a right-handed or clockwise direction about axis of symmetry 117a as previously mentioned, but more particularly, each strand 119' or 120' is formed by a conventional braided formation technique in which synthetic or natural fibers or filaments are braided together about the axis of symmetry 117a. In FIG. 24b, a combination of braided and conventional twisted strands 119" and 120" is illustrated. That is, note that strand 119" is of a conventional twisted line or rope product formed of conventional synthetic or natural fibers or filaments twisted about axis of symmetry 117b, as shown in FIG. 24. While strand 120" is formed of a braided construction as hereinbefore described with reference to FIG 24a. In FIG. 24c, the strands 119'" and 120'" (akin in twist direction to that of segment 116 of FIG. 23) have multiplied to form separate strand pairs 116', 116" nested together about axis of symmetry 117c in which the dominated twist direction for all elements is counterclockwise or left-handed. That is, note that segment 116' that comprises strands 119'" and 120"" twisted together in a left-handed direction, while pair 116" that comprises strands 119"" and 120'" also twisted together in a similar left-handed or counterclockwise direction. Yet the pair segments 116', 116" also twist about each other in a left-handed or counterclockwise direction relative to the axis of symmetry 117c.

FIG. 25 shows still yet another method of formation of the segments 50, 51 of

FIG. 10. As shown the segments 122, 123 are integrally formed in a X-pattem about a seamed intersection segment 124. The segments 122, 123 are each formed of a single strand 125 of material of rectangular cross section Thereafter, each subsegment is twisted as previously indicated above.

FIG. 26 shows yet another method of formation of the segments 50, 51 of FIG 10. As shown, the segments 126, 127 are formed in X-pattem about a seamed region 128. The segments 126, 127 are each formed of three strands 129, 130, 131 twisted as previously indicated Altemate Mesh Cell Designs

FIGS. 27-30 show altemate shapes for the mesh cell ofthe invention.

As show in FIG 27, a series of mesh cells 135 are depicted, each of which being of a triangular cross section that includes side mesh bars 136, 137 and base mesh bar 138. The side mesh bars 136, 137 meet each other at apex knot 139 and meet the base mesh bar 138 at comer knots 140. The side mesh bars 136, 137 include first and second strands 141, 142 which are twisted in opposite directions, i.e., the strands 141, 142 which comprise mesh bar 136 are twisted in a clockwise direction while such strands which comprise mesh bar 137 (when viewed from apex knot 139) are twisted in a counterclockwise direction. And the base mesh bar 138 which includes the strands 141, 142 twisted in a clockwise direction when view axially from initiation of contact with the velocity vector V8 representing relative water flow during operations. Repeating the shape of the series of mesh cells 135 places the apex knots 139 in a common transverse plane P8. While the comer knots 140 are longitudinally spaced a common longitudinal distance D4 that repeats along the series of mesh cells 135. Note that the pitch Po ofthe strands 141, 142 are common and are in a range of lOd to 70d. Result: hydrodynamic forces are created in which normalized components of mesh bars 136, 137, 138 are additive in a direαion of aπow 143 out of the plane of FIG. 27 toward the viewer.

But in FIG. 28, the base mesh bar 138' is composed of a rope of clockwise orientation of fibers in which the pitch P7 is less than Po of the mesh bars 136', 137'. Results are identical but since the longitudinal forces are bom by the base mesh bars 138' of greater load carry capability, the diameter of the mesh bars 136', 137' can be reduced with subsequent reduction in drag.

As shown in FIG. 29, the triangularly shaped mesh bars 143, 144 are composed of a single strand 146 of material of rectangular cross section in which mesh bar 143 is twisted clockwise and mesh bar 144 is twisted counterclockwise. Base mesh bar 145 is also composed of a single strand 146 of material of rectangular cross section is twisted in a clockwise direction as viewed from the initialization of the mesh bars 143, 144, 145 with water flow vector V9 in operations.

As shown in FIG. 30, a hexagonal mesh cell 150 is depicted, and is composed mesh bars 151, 152, 153, 154, 155, and 156. The mesh bars 151-156 are appropriately attached at braided intersections 157a-157f. The mesh bar 151 includes first and second strands 158, 159 which are twisted in a counterclockwise direction when viewed from braided intersection 157a. The mesh bar 152 also includes first and second strands 158, 159 which are twisted in a clockwise direction when viewed from braided intersection 157a. Mesh bars 153, 154 also includes first and second strands 158, 159 which are twisted in a clockwise direction when viewed braided intersection 157b or 157c. Mesh bar 155 also includes first and second strands 158, 159 which are twisted in a counterclockwise direαion when viewed from braided intersertion 157d. And mesh bar 156 also includes first and second strands 158, 159 which are twisted in a clockwise direction when viewed from braided interseαion 157e. Note that the pitch Po of the strands 158, 159 are common and are in a range of lOd to 70d. Result: hydrodynamic forces are created in which normalized components of mesh bars 151-156 are additive in a direαion of arrow 160 out ofthe plane of FIG. 30 toward the viewer.

Altemate Trawl Designs FIGS. 31 and 32 show variations in trawl designs using the mesh cell of the invention.

As shown in FIG. 31, a modified trawl 161 is depiαed in accordance with the invention. In this aspeα the mesh cells 162 of the invention are created in the fashion previously described so that subsequent operations generates increased volume of the trawl 161. However, such operations are unaffeαed by the faα that the trawl 161 is overlaid with netting 163 of a conventional twist, i.e., of a common direction. In this embodiment, the trawl 162 aαs as frame to accommodate the netting 163 while the mesh cells 162 provide for increased volumetric performance as previously mentioned.

As shown in FIG 32, a further modified trawl 165 is illustrated in accordance with the invention Trawl 165 comprises the following: (i) mesh cells 166 formed in accordance with invention, (ii) headrope 167 biseαed at midpoint 168 to define a left- hand lay sub-headrope 167a and a right-hand lay sub-headrope 167b, and (iii) footrope 169 comprising right hand lay sub-footrope 169a and left-hand lay sub- footrope 169b extending from bottom segments 170. In subsequent operations, as previously discussed, the twist direαions ofthe headrope 167 provides for generation of upwardly, vertical force veαors 171. During similar operating conditions, the footrope 169 provides for generation of downwardly, vertical direαed force vectors 172. Result: a substantial increase in the size of opening 173 measured between the headrope 167 and the footrope 169.

FIGS. 32a and 32b show variations in the headrope 167 or footrope 169 in which the cell construαion depiαed in FIGS. 32 is changed. In more specific reference to FIG 32a, a detail of sub-headrope 167a' comprises an axis of symmetry 175, a first cylindrical strand 176 having intemal axis of symmetry coincident with the axis of symmetry 175 and a second strand 178. The first strand 176 is hence in an unwound state while the second strand 178 is seen to wind about the first strand 176 to define a series of turns 180 in tangential contaα with outer surface 181 thereof. Ratio of the diameters ofthe strands 176, 178: preferably 1: 1 but can be larger say 2:1 to about 4: 1. Direction of twist of second strand 178: the same as before, i.e., in a left-handed or counterclockwise lay. Note that any transverse cross seαion of the first strand 176 is circular and the outer surface 181 thereof is equi-spaced from both the intemal axis thereof and the axis of symmetry 175 ofthe sub-headrope 167a'. Note that the mate of the sub-headrope 167a' would have a similar construαion as the latter but with opposite winding as that shown.

In FIG. 32b, a detail of sub-footrope 169a" comprises an axis of symmetry 183, a first cylindrical strand 184 having intemal axis of symmetry coincident with the axis of symmetry 183 and a second strand 186. The first strand 184 is hence in an unwound state while the second strand 186 is seen to wind about the first strand 184 to define a series of turns 187 in tangential contaα with outer surface 188 thereof. Ratio range of the diameters ofthe strands 184, 186: preferably about 1 : 1 but can be larger say from 2:1 to 4:1. Direαion of twist: the same as before, i.e., in a right-handed or clockwise lay. Note that any transverse cross seαion of the first strand 184 is circular and the outer suiface 188 thereof is equi-spaced from both the intemal axis 185 thereof and the axis of syrnmetry 183 of the sub-footrope 169a'. Note that the mate of the sub-footrope 169a' would have a similar construαion to the latter but with opposite winding as that shown

Still Further Aspeαs FIG. 33 shows an altemative mesh cell 200. The mesh cell 200 comprises four mesh bars-viz., mesh bars 201, 202, 203 and 204. Each mesh bar 201-204 has an angulated axis of symmetry 205 and includes a first strand 210 and a second strand 211. As explained in more detail below, the first strand 210 can be created using a conventional manufacturing process (or otherwise as previously explained) and includes an outer surface 212 Such outer surface 212 defines a common diamαer D. The outer surface 212 is seen not to undulate relative to the axis of symmetry 205 of each mesh bar 201-204 but instead remain parallel thereto throughout the length of the latter, beginning from upstream point 206 That is, the axis of symmetry 209 of the first strand 210 remains coincident with the axis of symmetry 205 over the entire length of each mesh bar 201-204 and is not twisted about such axis of symmetry 205. However, this is not the case with regard to the second strand 211. It is seen to be twisted about such axis of symmetry 205 of each mesh bar 201-204 in helical fashion and to form a series of turns 195 in contaα with the outer surface 212 of the first strand 210 The direαion of the rums 195 in contaα with the outer surface 212 of the first strand 210 is in either one of two direαions thereabout— clockwise or counterclockwise as viewed along the axis of symmetry 205 in a receding direαion established at the upstream end 206 of each mesh bar 201-204

In more detail with regard to mesh bar 201, the second strand 211 is construαed to define a clockwise lay direαion. As to mesh bar 202, the second strand 211 defines a counterclockwise lay direαion. With respeα to mesh bar 203 (opposite to mesh bar 201), the second strand 211 is created to provide a clockwise lay direction. Finally, with regard to mesh bar 204 (opposite to mesh bar 202), the second strand 211 defines a counterclockwise direαion.

FIG. 34 shows an enlarged view ofthe outer surface 212 of the first strand 210 ofthe mesh bar 201 in contaα with turns 195 of the second strand 211. Note that the first strand 210 may be construαed of one (or more) twisted thread or threads 215 defining a lay direαion (normalized relative to the upstream end 206), that is opposite to the lay seφentining direαion ofthe second strand 210 about the first strand 210. In that way, a series of openings 196 are provided adjacent to intersections 197 between the turns 195 and the outer surface 212 of the first strand 210 that aid in creating macro-lift veαors during operations apart from the lift mechanism(s) previously described.

Since the direction of twist of the threads 215 making up the first strand 210 is based upon the lay seφentining direαion of second strand 211 about such first strand 210 as each mesh bar 201-204 is construαed, note in FIG. 33 that the lay direαion of second strand 211 associated with the mesh bar 201 is clockwise. Hence, the twist direαion of threads 215 comprising the first strand 210 for such mesh bar 201 is counterclockwise. A similar construαion scheme is used for the remaining mesh bars 202-204 wherein the lay direαion of the threads 215 associated with the first produα strand 210 is clockwise, counterclockwise, and clockwise, respeαively, for the mesh bars 202, 203 and 204. FIG. 35 shows yet another altemative mesh cell 220 comprising four mesh bars— viz., mesh bars 221, 222, 223 and 224. Each mesh bar 221-224 has an angulated axis of symmetry 225 and is composed a first strand 230 as hereinbefore described. However, instead of a single strand, note that the invention embodied within the mesh cell 220 includes a like oriented pair of second and third strands 231, 232 that seφentine about the first strand 230. As previously explained, the first strand 230 has an outer surface 226 defining a common diameter Do, such outer surface 226 remaining parallel to the axis of symmetry 225 beginning at upstream point 227. That is to say, note that the intemal axis of symmetry 229 ofthe first strand 230 remains coincident with the axis of symmetry 225 of mesh bar 221-224 over the entire length of the latter and is not twisted about such axis of symmetry 225. However, the pair of second and third produα strands 231, 232 is twisted about such axis of symmetry 225 of each mesh bar 221-224 in uniform fashion to form turns 219 in contaα with the outer surface 226 ofthe first strand 230 in either one of two direαions— clockwise or counterclockwise as viewed along the axis of symmetry 225 in a receding direαion established at the upstream end 227 of each mesh bar 221-224. In more detail with regard to mesh bar 221, the pair of second and third strands 231, 232 is construαed to each provide a clockwise lay direction. As to mesh bar 222, the pair of second and third strands 231, 232 defines a counterclockwise lay direction. With respeα to mesh bar 223 (opposite to mesh bar 221), the pair of second and third strands 231, 232 is created a clockwise lay direction. Finally, with regard to mesh bar 224 (opposite to mesh bar 222), the pair of second and third strands 231, 232 defines a counterclockwise direαion.

FIG. 36 shows an enlarged view ofthe outer surface 226 of the first strand 230 of the mesh bar 223. Note that the first strand 230 is similar in construction to that previously described and includes one or more twisted threads 235 defining a lay direction that is opposite to the direction ofthe pair of second and third strands 231, 232. That is, since the lay direction of the pair of second and third strands 231, 232 of the mesh bar 223 is clockwise, the twist direαion of threads 235 comprising the first strand 230 is counterclockwise. A similar construαion scheme is used for the remaining mesh bars 221, 222 and 224 wherein the lay direction ofthe threads 235 associated with the mesh bars 221, 222, and 224, is counterclockwise, clockwise, and clockwise, respectively. FIG. 37 shows still yet another altemative mesh cell 240 comprising four mesh bars— viz., mesh bars 241, 242, 243 and 244. Each mesh bar 241-244 has an angulated axis of symmetry 245 and is composed of a first strand 250 of diameter Dl and a second strand 251 of diameter D2 where D2 = 1/2 Dl. As previously explained, the first strand 250 has an outer surface 252 defining the aforementioned diamαer Dl, such outer surface 252 remaining parallel to the axis of symmetry 245 beginning from upstream point 246. That is, the axis of symmetry 249 of the first strand 250 remains coincident with the axis of symmαry 245 over the entire length of mesh bar 241-244 and is not twisted about such axis of symmetry 245. However, the second strand 251 is twisted about such axis of symmetry 245 of each mesh bar 241-244 in contaα with the outer surface 252 of the first strand 250 in either one of two direαions— clockwise or counterclockwise as viewed along the axis of symmetry 245 in a receding direαion established at the upstream end 246 of each mesh bar 241-244.

In more detail with regard to mesh bar 241, the second strand 251 is construαed in a clockwise lay direction. As to mesh bar 242, the second strand 251 defines a counterclockwise lay direαion. With respeα to mesh bar 243 (opposite to mesh bar 241), the second strand 251 is created a clockwise lay direαion. Finally, with regard to mesh bar 244 (opposite to mesh bar 242), the second strand 251 defines a counterclockwise direαion. FIG. 38 shows an enlarged view ofthe outer surface 252 of the first strand 250 ofthe mesh bar 243 in contaα with the seconα strand 251. Note that the first strand 250 is construαed of braided construαion while the second strand 251 is construαed of one (or more) twisted thread or threads 255 defining a lay direαion that can be the same as or can be opposite to its lay seφentining direαion about the first strand 250. In either circumstance, a series of openings 256 are provided adjacent to intersections 257 and the outer surface 252 of the first strand 250 that aid in creating macro-lift vectors during operations as previously mentioned, such veαors being separate and apart from the main lift mechanism(s) previously described

Aspeαs Associated with the Trawl Svstem ofthe Invention FIG 39 shows another embodiment of the invention A towmg vessel 260 is shown the surface 261 of a body of water 262 towing a mid-water trawl 263 ofthe trawl system 264 positioned between surface 161 and the bottom 265 The trawl system 264 includes the trawl 263 conneαed to the vessel 260 via main tow lines 268, doors 269, towing bridles 270, mini bridles 270a, and frontropes 271 that include breastlines 271a, headropes 271b (see FIG 40), minibridles, etc A senes of weights 272 attach to the bridles 270 The trawl 263 is made up four panels (tow side panels, a top panel and a bottom panel), and includes wings 274 for a better herding at open mouth 275 The wings 274 are seen to define a mesh size that is larger than that used to form mid-portion jacket 276, intermediate jacket 277 or codend 278 As shown in FIG 40, the wing 274a includes a series of mesh cells 280 of reαangular cross seαion that are offset from the central axis of symmαry 281 of the trawl 263

FIGS 40 and 41 show the mesh cells 280 in more detail

As shown in FIG 40, the mesh cells 280 each have a longitudinal axis of symmetry 282 that is offset from the central axis of symmetry 281 of the trawl 263 Since the shape of the trawl 263 varies along the axis of symmetry 281 from almost cylindrically shaped at the wing 274a to a more frustoconical shape over the remainder, the position ofthe axes of symmetry 282 of individual cells 280 vary with respeα to the axis of symmetry 281, from parallel and coextensive, non-parallel and non-intersecting and/or to non-parallel and interseαing But note that axes of symmetry 282 of the cells 280 are always offset therefrom In FIG 41, each cell 280 is formed of a plurality of straps 284 formed into a

X-pattem using a series of conneαions 285 to maintain such orientation Each strap 284 is twisted, such direction being normalized to the receding direαion of use, as indicated by arrow 286, such twisting occurring about its own axis of symmetry 286 in either one of two lay directions: left-handed or clockwise or right-handed or counterclockwise as viewed relative to the central axis 281 of the trawl 263 (see FIG. 40) As a result, leading and trailing edges 287 are formed.

As shown in FIGS 42a, 42b and 42c, the cross seαion of each strap 284 is seen to be basically rectangular In FIG 42a, the twisted strap 284 includes rounded short sides 284a and parallel long sides 284b with the leading and trailing edges occurring at the short sides 284b alternating between the former and the latter based on the pitch, as explained below In FIG 42b, instead of the cross seαion being of a solid geometrical rectangle, strap 284' includes a side wall 290 defining a cavity 291 into which three strands 292 reside-in side-by side fashion That is, outer surfaces 293 of the three strands 292 have tangential contaα with each other as well as inner surface 290a of the oval side wall 290 In FIG 42c, strap 284" includes side wall 295 defining a cavity 296 into which two strands 297 reside— in side-by side fashion That is, outer surfaces 297a of the two strands 297 have tangential contaα with each other as well as inner surface 295a ofthe oval side wall 295

FIG. 42d shows an altemate conneαion 285' in which the long sides 284b' of adjacent X-ed straps 284 are attached together in a butting relationship A series of seams 298 provide for such attachment as shown in FIG 42e The seams 298 are parallel to short sides 284a'

Note that the right-handiness or left-handiness twist ofthe straps 284 of FIG 41 is determined using the concept of a figure of man 298 as shown in FIG 43 as a normalizing icon positioned as described below Note that the figure 298 has feet 299 rotatable affixed to the central axis 281 of the trawl 263 As the trawl 263 and figure 298 are moved through the water, the figure 298 faces downstream so that his back first encounters the resistance provided by the water to the moving trawl 263. Hence, the figure 298 always looks in the direction of the arrow 286 with reference to the cell 280 of FIG. 41, in a receding direαion relative to such movement. The right- handed (clockwise) or left-handed (counterclockwise) twist of the straps 284 is hence based ofthe particular position ofthe right arm 300 versus left arm 301 as so positioned. Since the figure 298 can rotate relative to the central axis 281 , the twist direction of each strap 284 can be easily determined irrespeαive ofthe faα that the particular strap 284 is positioned above, below or offset to the side from the central axis 281. FIG. 44 shows another mesh cell embodiment. As shown, the mesh cell 280' is formed of a plurality of straps 303 formed into a

X-pattem using a series of conneαions 299 to effeα such orientation. Each strap 303 is untwisted and can be of a quasi-rectangular in cross seαion as shown in FIG. 45. Note that each such strap 303 in cross seαion includes long sides 304 and short sides 305. The short sides 305 form either the leading or trailing edges ofthe straps 303. In order have the capability of a hydrofoil, the exterior far long side 304a (exterior relative to the central axis 281 of the trawl) is preferably cambered relatively more than the near long side 304b. As a result, lift veαor 307 is provided. In addition, the short sides 305 can be rounded at comers 305a. The ratio of width W to thickness T ofthe strap 303 is as set forth supra. FIG. 46 shows an altemate strap design. As shown, the straps 303' are untwisted and have a X-pattem layout as previously described wherein the particularly straps 303' form the four mesh sides and use a series of connections 306 to maintain such orientation. Each strap 303' is of a quasi-reαangular in CTOSS section as shown in FIG. 47. Note that each such strap 303' includes long sides 308 and short sides 309. The short sides 309 form either the leading or trailing edges ofthe straps 303'. In order have the capability of a hydrofoil, the exterior far long side 308a (exterior relative to the central axis 281 of the trawl) is preferably cambered relative to uncambered near long side 308b, via placement of a series of shape-altering support sleeves 310 therealong, see FIG 46 As a result, lift veαor 311 of FIG 47 is provided In addition, the short sides 309 can be rounded at comers 309a The ratio of width W to thickness T of the strap 293' is preferably as previously stated, greater that 1 1 1 and preferably in a range of 2 1 to 10 1 but can be as large as 1 1 1 to 50 1

FIG 48 shows the support sleeve 310 in more detail

Each sleeve 310 is preferably of plastic (but metals can be substituted) and mcludes a cavity 312 having common cambered long side surfaces 312a and short side surfaces 312b built to accept each strap 303' even though the latter is of a reαangular αoss section, and reform the cross seαion of the latter to match the cross sectional shape ofthe cavity 312 As a result, the lift veαor 311 is provided in a direαion away from the central axis ofthe trawl Leadmg and trailing edges 313 thereof are as depicted FIG 49 shows one ofthe conneαions 306 in more detail As shown, the conneαιon 306 has its long sides 308 of adjacent X-ed straps 303' are attached together after each of the long sides 308a', 308b' have been folded mto two plies A seπes of seams 315 provide for such attachment The seams 315 are parallel to short sides 309a', 309b'

Attributes are provided by the quasi-reαangular cross seαional straps 303, 303' that, in operations, relate pπmaπly to reducing the noise and drag of the trawl system 264 of FIG 39 whether such straps 303, 303' are used in FIG 39 in the construction of the trawl 263, mam tow lines 268, towmg bridles 270 and/or frontropes 271 that include breastlines, footropes, headropes, minibridles, etc , as explained below Suffice it to say, experiments have shown a rather large reduction in noise using the cell design ofthe present mvention when compared to conventional cell designs With reference to FIG. 50, graph 320 shows the relationship between generated noise in dB versus time for two separate, independent cell bar designs— curve 321 for a conventional uni-twisted cell bars presently used in construαion of the trawls and the like, and curve 322 associated with bi-direαional twisted strands construction in accordance with the teachings ofthe invention. Note over the time interval 6-10, there is a 20 dB improvement in the cell construαion in accordance with the invention.

FIG. 51 shows an altemate layout for the straps

As shown, the straps 330 include clockwise lay segments 331 and counterclockwise segments 332 lain in an x-pattem so that midpoints 333 are coincident with and make interseαion with each other at conneαions 334 Each segment 331 is positioned so that its end 331a (that aids in defining the resulting cell 334) is offset a distance Dl above axis of symmetry 335 while end 331b is offset a distance Dl below the axis of symmetry 335 The segments 332 are positioned (relative to the cell 334) so that an end 332a is offset a distance Dl below axis of symmetry 335 while end 332b is offset a distance Dl above the axis of symmetry 335 Thereafter additional pairs of segments (akin to the segments 331, 332) are similar construαed and positioned along the lines previously described, supra.

FIG. 52a and 52b show altemate details of a connection 334' in which the long sides 338a of adjacent X-ed straps 330 are attached together. A series of seams 339 provide for such attachment The seams 339 are parallel to short sides 338b

FIGS. 53, 54, 55 and 56 show the cell design of the invention used in the construction a tow line assembly 348. In detail, the FIG 53 shows starboard tow line 349 and FIG 54 shows a port tow line 350. Both are offsα from central axis 351, see FIGS. 55 and 56 midway between them. In FIG. 53, note that the starboard tow line 349 comprises first and second produα strands 352, 353 and is twisted about axis of symmetry 354 in a right-hand or clockwise direαion normalized to vessel 355. In FIG. 54 the port tow line 350 is shown to included first and second produα strands 357, 358 twisted about its axis of symmetry 359 in a left-hand or counterclockwise direαion normalized to vessel 355

Result ofthe aαion of FIGS 53-56 force veαors are generated which spread the towlines 349, 350 relative to the central axis 351 midway between them and increase the volume ofthe trawl 360

FIGS 57, 58, 59 and 60 are similar depiαions in regard to tow line assembly 348' to those shown in FIG 53-56 except for the most part, twisted straps 365, 366 are substituted for the strand pairs 352, 353, and 357, 358, respeαively used in the tow line assembly 348 In detail, the FIG 57 shows starboard strap tow line 349' and FIG 58 shows a port tow line 350' Both are offset from an central axis 351' midway between them Twist direαions are also similar. In more detail, the starboard strap 365 related to the starboard tow line 349', is twisted in a right-handed or clockwise direction normalized to the vessel 355' and wherein strap 366 associated with the port tow line 350', is twisted in a left-handed or counterclockwise direction, as viewed

Results of FIGS 57-60 force veαors are generated which spread the towlines 349', 350' relative to the central axis 351' and increase the volume of the trawl 360' Still further, FIGS 53-56 also illustrate the cell design ofthe invention, say when used in the construαing and using bridle assemblies generally indicated at 370, 370' offset from the central axis 351 ofthe trawl 360 which causes spreading ofthe trawl and an increase in volume

FIG 53 shows the starboard bridle assembly at 370 It includes a lower starboard bridle 372 composed of a pair of strands 373, 374 twisted about axis of symmetry 375 in a right-handed or clockwise direαion offset from central axis 351. Connection with the starboard tow line 349 is at conneαor 376. A weight 371 along the bridle 372 positions the same correαly. On the other hand, upper starboard bridle 377 comprises a pair of strands 378, 379, twisted about axis of symmetry 380 in a left- handed or counterclockwise direαion and also connects to the starboard tow line 349 at the conneαor 376.

In FIG. 54 showing the port bridle assembly 370', note that the same includes lower port bridle 381 composed of a pair of strands 383, 384 twisted about axis of symmetry 385 in a left-handed or counterclockwise direαion. Conneαion with the port tow line 350 is at conneαor 386 A weight 371' along the bridle 381 correαly positions the same. On the other hand, upper port bridle 388 comprising a pair of strands 389, 390, is twisted about its axis of symmetry 391 in a right-handed or clockwise direction. It also conneαs to the port tow line 350 via the conneαor 386. Result: force veαors are generated at mouth 393 of the trawl 360 resulting in an increase in its volume relative of central axis 351. With further regard to bridle construαion, note that FIGS. 57 and 58 are similar depiαions to those shown in FIG. 53 and 54 except that pairs of starboard and port straps , viz., starboard strap pair 395, 396 and port strap pair 397, 398, respeαively are substituted for the stranded pairs of starboard and port bridles viz., for starboard strand pairs 373, 374 and 378, 379, and for port strand pairs 383, 384 and 389 and 390 also respectively. Twist direαions remain the same. In more detail, the lower starboard strap 395 associated with the starboard towline 349' via conneαor 400, is twisted in a right-handed or clockwise direαion normalized to the vessel 355' and wherein upper starboard strap 396 associated with the starboard tow line 349', is twisted in a left- handed or counterclockwise direαion, as viewed. And in FIG 58, the lower port strap 397 associated with the port tow line 350' via conneαor 401, is twisted in a left- handed or counterclockwise direαion normalized to the vessel 355' and wherein upper port strap 398 also associated with the port tow line 350', is twisted in a right-handed or clockwise direction, as viewed.

Results of FIGS. 57 and 58 with regard to bridle construction: force veαors are generated which spread the trawl 360' and increase its volume relative to its central axis of symmαry 351^* (TIGS. 59 and 60).

Still further, FIGS. 53, 54 and FIGS. 57, 58 also illustrate the cell design of the invention, say when used in the construαing and using a frontrope assembly such as breast line assemblies generally indicated at 405, 405' offset from the central axis 351, 351' of the trawl 360, 360', respeαively (FIGS. 55, 56, 59, 60) which result in spreading ofthe trawl and an increase in volume.

FIGS. 53 and FIG. 57 show the starboard breast line assembly 405. It includes a lower starboard breast line 406 (FIGS. 53 and 57) composed of a pair of strands 407, 408 and twisted about axis of symmetry 409 in a left-handed or counterclockwise direαion offset from the central axis 351, 351'. Connection with the lower starboard stranded bridle 372 (FIG 53) or with the lower starboard strapped bridle 395 (FIG. 57) is at conneαion 410. On the other hand, upper starboard breast line 411 (FIGS. 53 and 57) comprises a pair of strands 412, 413, twisted about axis of symmetry 414 in a right-handed or clockwise direαion and also conneαs to the upper stranded starboard bridle 377 (FIG. 53) or with the upper strapped starboard bridle 396 (FIG. 57) at the conneαion 415.

In FIG 54 and FIG. 58 show the port breast line assembly 405' which has a similar construαion as starboard breast line assembly 405, such port breast line assembly 405' being best shown in FIG 58 and including a lower port breast line 415 composed of a pair of strands 416, 417 and twisted about axis of symmetry 418 in a right-handed or clockwise direαion offset from the central axis 369, 351, 351'. Connection with lower strapped port bridle 397 (FIG. 58) is at connection 419 or with the lower stranded port bridle 381 (FIG. 54) at a similar connection 419. On the other hand, upper port breast line 420 comprises a pair of strands 421, 422, twisted about axis of symmαry 423 in a left-handed or counterclockwise direαion and also conneαs to the upper strapped port bridle 398 (FIG 58) at the conneαor 425 or with the upper stranded port bridle 388 (FIG. 54) at a similar positioned conneαion 425.

Results of FIGS. 53, 54 and FIGS. 57, 58 with regard to breast line construαion: force veαors are generated which spread the trawl 360, 360' and increase its volume relative to its central axis of symmetry 351, 351'.

Still further, FIGS. 55 and 59 also illustrate the cell design of the invention in another aspeα, say when used in the construαing and using a frontrope assembly such as a headrope assemblies generally indicated at 430, 430' offset from the central axis 351, 351' which result in spreading ofthe trawl and an increase in volume.

FIG. 55 shows headrope assembly 430 in more detail. It includes a starboard headrope subassembly 431 and a port headrope subassembly 432 each composed of a pair of strands: subassembly 431 including strands 433, 434 and subassembly 432 comprising strands 435, 436 The subassemblies 431, 432 meet at connection 437 in a vertical plane through the central axis 351. Ln detail, the strands 433, 434 are twisted about axis of symmetry 438 in a left-handed or counterclockwise direction. On the other hand, the strands 435, 436 are twisted about axis of symmetry 439 in a right-handed or clockwise direαion. Conneαion ofthe subassemblies 431, 432 with the upper starboard bridle 377 and upper port bridle 388 is at conneαor 440 or equivalent.

FIG. 59 shows headrope assembly 430' which includes a starboard subassembly 441 and a port headrope subassembly 442. The former is composed of a single strap 443 twisted about axis of symmetry 444 in a left-handed or counterclockwise direαion, while the port headrope subassembly 442 comprises a single strap 445 twisted about axis of symmetry 446 in a right-handed or clockwise direction. Connection ofthe strap 443 with strap 445 is at conneαion 447 in a vertical plane through the central axis 351'. But the strap 443 conneαs with the upper starboard strapped bridle 377' at connection point 448, while the strap 445 conneαs with the upper port strapped bridle 388' at conneαor 449 or equivalent. Results of FIGS. 55 and 59 with regard to footrope construction: force veαors are generated which spread the trawl 360, 360' and increase its volume relative to its central axis of symmetry 351, 351', respeαively.

Still further, FIGS. 56 and 60 also illustrate the cell design of the invention in another aspeα, say when used in the construαing and using a frontrope assembly such as footrope assemblies generally indicated at 450, 450' offset from the central axis 351, 351' which result in spreading ofthe trawl and an increase in volume.

FIG. 56 shows footrope assembly 450 in more detail. It includes a starboard footrope subassembly 451 and a port footrope subassembly 452 each composed of a pair of strands: subassembly 451 including strands 453, 454 and subassembly 452 comprising strands 455, 456. The subassemblies 451, 452 meet at conneαion 457 in a vertical plane through the central axis 351. In detail, the strands 453, 454 are twisted about axis of symmetry 458 in a right-handed or clockwise direαion. On the other hand, the strands 455, 456 are twisted about axis of symmetry 459 in a left-handed or counterclockwise direαion. Conneαion of the subassemblies 451, 452 with the upper starboard bridle 377 and upper port bridle 388 is at conneαor 460 or equivalent.

FIG. 60 shows headrope assembly 450' which includes a starboard subassembly 461 and a port headrope subassembly 462. The former is composed of a single strap 463 twisted about axis of symmetry 464 in a right-handed or clockwise direction, while the port headrope subassembly 462 comprises a single strap 465 twisted about axis of symmetry 466 in a left-handed or counterclockwise direction. Connection of the strap 463 with strap 465 is at conneαion 467 in a vertical plane through the central axis 351'. But the strap 463 conneαs with the upper starboard strapped bridle at connection point 468, while the strap 465 conneαs with the upper port strapped bridle 388' at like conneαor 468 or equivalent.

Results of FIGS. 56 and 60 with regard to footrope construction: force veαors are generated which spread the trawl 360, 360' and increase its volume relative to its central axis of symmαry.

Final Operational Aspeαs In order to use the cell construαed in accordance with the invention, note that use in the field is particularized as to where the cell is used within the trawl system ofthe invention, viz., with a towline, a trawl, or frontrope in the shape of a breastlines, bridles, headrope or footrope.

That is, the mαhod of field use includes the steps of:

(i) from a vessel positioned at the surface of a body of water, deploying first and second cell bars of a trawl system below the surface of the body of water wherein a central axis offset from the first and second cell bar means is established and the first and second cell bar means have at least one interconnecting conneαion therebetween,

(ii) establishing positional and direαional integrity between the shaped hydrofoil means associated with the first and second cell bars relative to the central axis, and

(ii) propelling the shaped hydrofoil means ofthe first and second cell bars whereby leading and trailing edges are established therefor along with separate pressure differentials that provide lift veαors relative to the central axis to increase cell performance wherein said leading edge for the first cell bar when normalized to a receding direction relative to the central axis, always resides at a right side ofthe first cell bar as viewed in the receding direαion and wherein the leading edge of the second cell bar when normalized to the same receding direαion, reside along a left side thereof as viewed.

Then with particular usage in association with a tow line, the steps (i)-(iϋ) are modified as follows: Step (i) is further charaαerized by the first and second cell bars being associated with a tow line seleαed from one of a port and starboard tow line and the at least one interconneαing conneαion therebetween is established at the vessel itself; Step (ii) includes positioning first and second strands comprising the hydrofoil means of the first cell bar so that at least one strand thereof is positioned along a first axis of symmetry offset from the central axis wherein at least one of which is of a left-hand, loosely wound lay relative to a receding direαion established relative to the central axis and positioning third and fourth strands comprising the said shaped hydrofoil means of said second cell bar along a second axis of symmetry so that at least one of which is of a right-hand, loosely wound lay relative to the receding direαion and the central axis; and step (iii) includes the substep of increasing spread between the port and starboard tow lines relative to the central axis to gain increased cell performance. Instead of strands, straps can be substituted as previously discussed.

Further, with particular usage in association with a trawl, the steps (i)-(ϋi) are modified as follows: Step (i) is further charaαerized by the central axis being longitudinally symmetrical of the trawl and the at least one interconneαing conneαion being established below the surface of the body of water; step (ii) includes positioning first and second strands comprising the hydrofoil means of the first cell bar so that at least one strand thereof is positioned along a first axis of symmetry offset from the central axis wherein at least one of which is of a left-hand, loosely wound lay relative to a receding direction established relative to the central axis, as well as positioning third and fourth strands comprising the shaped hydrofoil means of said second cell bar along a second axis of symmetry so that at least one of which is of a right-hand, loosely wound lay relative to the receding direαion and the central axis; and in which step (ϋi) includes the substep of increasing volume ofthe trawl relative the central axis by the creation of the lift veαors to gain increased cell performance. Instead of strands, straps can be substituted as previously discussed. Still further, with particular usage in association with a frontrope, the steps (i)-

(iii) are modified as follows: Step (i) is further charaαerized by the central axis being longitudinally symmetrical of a trawl to which the frontrope attaches and the at least one interconneαing conneαion therebetween being established below the surface ofthe body of water; in which step (ii) includes positioning first and second strands comprising the hydrofoil means ofthe first cell bar so that at least one strand thereof is positioned along a first axis of symmetry offset from the central axis wherein at least one of which is of a left-hand, loosely wound lay relative to a receding direαion established relative to the central axis, as well as positioning third and fourth strands comprising the shaped hydrofoil means of said second cell bar along a second axis of symmetry so that at least one of which is of a right-hand, loosely wound lay relative to the receding direαion and the central axis; and in which step (ϋi) mcludes the substep of increasing volume of the trawl relative the central axis by the creation of the lift veαors due to the frontrope to gain increased cell performance. Instead of strands, straps can be substituted as previously discussed. Yet still further, with particular usage in association with one of a pair of port and starboard bridles, the steps (i)-(ϋi) are modified as follows: Step (i) is further charaαerized by the central axis being longitudinally symmetrical of a trawl to which the bridles attach and the at least one interconneαing conneαion therebetween bemg established below the surface ofthe body of water; in which step (ϋ) includes positioning first and second strands comprising the hydrofoU means of the first cell bar so that at least one strand thereof is positioned along a first axis of symmetry offsα from the central axis wherein at least one of which is of a left-hand, loosely wound lay relative to a receding direαion established relative to the central axis, as well as positioning third and fourth strands comprismg the shaped hydrofoϋ means of the second cell bar along a second axis of symmetry so that at least one of which is of a right-hand, loosely wound lay relative to the receding direαion and the central axis; and in which step (iϋ) includes the substep of increasing volume of the trawl relative the central axis by the creation of the lift veαors due to the seleαed pair of bridles to gain increased cell performance. Instead of strands, straps can be substituted as previously discussed.

Still further, with particular usage in association with a headrope, the steps (i)- (iϋ) are modified as follows Step (i) is further charaαerized by the central axis being longitudinally symmetrical of a trawl to which the headrope attaches and the at least one interconnecting conneαion therebetween being established below the surface ofthe body of water; in which step (ii) includes positioning first and second strands comprising the hydrofoϋ means ofthe first cell bar means so that at least one strand thereof is positioned along a first axis of symmetry offset from the central axis wherein at least one of which is of a left-hand, loosely wound lay relative to a receding direαion estabUshed relative to the central axis, as well as positioning third and fourth strands comprising the shaped hydrofoU means of said second cell bar means along a second axis of symmetry so that at least one of which is of a right-hand, loosely wound lay relative to the receding direction and the central axis; and in which step (iϋ) mcludes the substep of increasmg volume of the trawl relative the central axis by the creation ofthe lift veαors due to the headrope to gain mcreased ceU performance. Instead of strands, straps can be substituted as previously discussed.

Yet still further, with particular usage in association with a footrope, the steps (i)-(ϋi) are modified as foUows: Step (i) is further charaαerized by the central axis being longitudinally symmetrical of a trawl to which the footrope attaches and the at least one mterconnecting conneαion therebetween bemg estabhshed below the surface ofthe body of water; in which step (ϋ) includes positiomng first and second strands comprising the hydrofoϋ means ofthe first cell bar means so that at least one strand thereof is positioned along a first axis of symmetry offset from the central axis wherein at least one of which is of a left-hand, loosely wound lay relative to a receding direαion established relative to the central axis, as well as positioning third and fourth strands comprising the shaped hydrofoU means of said second cell bar means along a second axis of symmetry so that at least one of which is of a right-hand, loosely wound lay relative to the receding direαion and the central axis; and in which step (ϋi) includes the substep of increasing volume of the trawl relative the central axis by the creation ofthe lift veαors due to the footrope to gain increased ceU performance Instead of strands, straps can be substituted as previously discussed.

From the foregoing, it will be appreciated that one skϋled in the art can make various modifications and changes to the embodiments and methods within the spirit and scope of the claimed invention as set forth below For example, in retrofitting trawls with the mesh ceU of the invention, it should be appreciated that the tensUe strength of the mesh ceU construαion ofthe invention, should be at least equal in strength to that of the ceUs undergoing replacement. That means that if the mesh ceU ofthe mvention is a composed of two produα strands each manufactured in accordance with conventional manufacturing processes having a tensϋe strength S, the 2 x S must be at least equal to the tensUe strength ofthe single strand that is being replaced. In addition, the lengths of bridles and minibridles used to tow upon the upper mouth edge and lower mouth edge of the trawl, should be lengthened in order to maintain the proper angle of attack of the trawl during operations, i.e., as there is an incremental change in volume ofthe trawl, the bridles and minibridles must be increased to maintain the proper angle of attack. Yet further, referring to FIG. 1, it is seen that intermediate portion 28 of trawl 13 is made up of smaller size mesh which may continue to decrease in size toward the aft of the trawl 13. Result: high drag components. It has been discovered that drag can be significantly reduced using mesh cells comprising rather loosely (not tightly) wound strands in a common direαion. The pitch of the turns in the aforementioned range 3d to 70d but preferably are within a pitch range that results in a series of cambered sections parallel (or closely paraUel) to the axis of symmetry of the trawl 13 being formed. Result: vibration and drag are substantiaUy reduced. Experiments show a reduαion in drag in a range of 30 to 50 %. Further advantages: such mesh ceUs can be construαed by conventional mesh making machines.

Additionally, to manufacture the ceUs, a process simUar to one associated with processmg two-stand netting, can be used, with modification as indicated below. E.g., a hook for handling the pair of strands for knotting, is modified to after pick up, but before knotting, the paired strands can be spun a certain number of revolutions to provide the desϋ-ed pitch ofthe mesh bar. The direαion of rotation is controUed so that the direαion of twist normalized to the hook, is opposite. There is also an equal distance along the mesh bars measured from the knot. Hence the pitch of each mesh bar wiU be essentiaUy equal and the direαion of twist is opposite.

Further, machine produced mesh ceUs can be modified to produce seines that have the foUowing field capabUities. The mesh ceUs of the mvention are reproduced in full or intermediate seαions or areas throughout the seine Such a construαion in whole or in part, permits the creation of composite forces say, during pursmg of the seine, causes diametricaUy opposite seαions of the seme to dive, lift and/or otherwise expand relative to remaining seαions or areas. Result: the volume of the seine is suφrisingly inαeased during such pursmg operations in the field, and the occuπence of excess bUlowing ofthe seme during such operations, is significantly reduced. The pitch of the bridle lines and the forward seαions of the frontropes may be longer than the pitch ofthe middle seαions of the frontropes and those ceUs making up meshes aft ofthe forward seαions ofthe frontropes.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A ceU for use in a trawl system for generating a hydrofoϋ-like effeα during field operations for aiding in inαeasing a performance charaαeristic thereof in a water- entrained environment, comprismg first and second ceU bar means offset from a central axis associated with a trawl system and having at least one interconneαing connection therebetween, each of said first and second ceU bar means comprising a shaped hydrofoU means whereby in field operations as said ceU is propelled through a water-entrained environment, leading and trailing edges are estabhshed for each of said shaped hydrofoU means along with separate pressure differentials that provide lift veαors relative to said central axis to increase ceU performance wherein said leading edge for said first ceU bar means when normalized to a receding direαion relative to said central axis, reside at a ^"right side of said first ceU bar means as viewed in said receding direαion and wherem said leading edge of said second ceU bar means when normalized to said receding direαion, reside along a left side of said second bar means as viewed.

2 The ceU of Claun 1 wherein said trawl system is selerted from a group comprismg a trawl, first and second tow lines, frontropes and first and second bridles, and said central axis is individuaUy associated therewith and wherein said shaped hydrofoϋ means of said first ceU bar means mcludes at least first and second strands positioned along a first axis of symmetry offset from said central axis wherem at least one of which is of a left-hand, loosely wound lay relative to said receding direαion and said central axis and wherem said shaped hydrofoU means of said second ceU bar means mcludes at least third and fourth strands in which at least one of which is of a right-hand, loosely wound lay relative to said receding direαion and said central axis, said first, second, third and fourth strands having a common origin at said at least one mterconneαmg connection.

3. The ceU of Claun 2 in which said seleαed group of said trawl system is said trawl and said central axis is symmetrical thereof and wherem said ceU performance comprises increasing trawl volume relative to said central axis by said lift veαors.

4. The ceU of Claim 2 in which said seleαed group of said trawl system is said first and second tow lines, said central axis is central thereof and said at least one mterconnecting conneαion thereof is at a vessel or trawler at the surface of a body of water and wherein said ceU performance comprises increasing spreading distance therebetween by said hft veαors, and in shaUow waters, decreasing diving veαors.

5. The ceU of Claim 2 in which said seleαed group of said trawl system is said frontropes and said central axis is central thereof and wherem said ceU performance comprises increasing volume of a trawl attached thereto by said lift veαors.

6. The ceU of Claim 2 in which said seleαed group of said trawl system is said first and second bridles and said central axis is central thereof and wherem said ceU performance comprises increasmg spreading distance therebetween by said lift veαors.

7. The ceU of Claim 2 wherein both said first and second strands are both of a left-hand, loosely wound lay and are construαed to wind uniformly with respeα to said first axis of symmetry in said receding direαion relative to said central axis and wherem said third and fourth strands are both of a right-hand, loosely wound lay and wind uniformly with respeα to said second axis of symmetry in said receding direαion relative to said central axis.

8. The ceU of Claim 7 in which said first and second strands are each formed of synthetic or natural fibers or filaments and are each internally twisted in a left-hand lay relative to said recedmg direαion, and in which said third and fourth strands are each formed of synthetic or natural fibers or filaments and each are internaUy twisted in a right- hand lay relative to said receding direαion.

9. The ceU of Claim 7 in which said strands are each formed of internally braided synthetic or natural fibers or filaments.

10. The ceU of Claim 2 in which said first strand is provided with an internal axis of symmαry coincident with said first axis of symmetry and is positioned in an unwound state relative thereto, said second strand being construαed to wind about said first strand in uniform fashion to provide said left-hand loosely wound lay and in which said third strand is provided with an intemal axis of symmetry coincident with said second axis of symmetry and is positioned in an unwound state relative thereto, said fourth strand bemg construαed to wind about said third strand to provide said right-hand loosely wound lay.

11. The ceU of Claim 10 in which first and thud strands are each formed of synthetic or natural fibers or filaments internally braided to form same; in which said second strand is formed of synthetic or natural fibers or filaments internaUy twisted mto a left-hand lay relative to said recedmg direαion; and in which said fourth strand is formed of intemal twisted synthetic or natural fibers having a right-hand lay relative to said recedmg direction.

12. The ceU of Claun 10 in which each strand is formed of synthetic or natural fibers or filaments braided together to form same.

13. The ceU of Claim 10 in which second and fourth strands are each formed of synthetic or natural fibers or filaments internaUy braided to form same; said second strand being construαed to wind about said first strand in uniform fashion to provide said left-hand loosely wound lay relative to said receding direαion; said fourth strand being construαed to wind about said third strand in uniform fashion to provide said right-hand loosely wound lay relative to said receding direαion.

14. The ceU of Claim 13 in which said first and third strands are each formed of internaUy twisted synthetic or natural fibers or filaments; said internal twist of said first strand providmg a left-hand internal lay relative to said recedmg direαion; said intemal twist of said third strand providmg a right-hand intemal lay relative to said recedmg direαion.

15 The ceU of Claim 7 in which said first and second strands define turns in a pitch range of about 3d to 70d where d is the diameter of at least the smaUer of said strands and in which said third and fourth strands define rums in a pitch range of about 3d to 70d where d is the diameter of at least the smaUer of said strands.

16 The cell of Claim 10 in which said second and fourth strands define turns in a pitch range about 3d to 70d where d is the diameter thereof

17. The ceU of Claim 15 in which said pitch range is about 5d to 40d.

18. The ceU of Claim 16 in which said pitch range is about 5d to 40d.

19. The ceU of Claim 1 wherem said trawl system is seleαed from a group comprismg a trawl, first and second tow lines, frontropes and first and second bridles, and said central axis is individually associated therewith and wherem said shaped hydrofoU means of said first ceU bar means includes a first single strap having a cross section selected by the group comprismg a reαangular cross seαion and a quasi-rectangular CTOSS section and wherem said shaped hydrofoU means of said second ceU bar means also mcludes a second smgle strap having a cross seαion seleαed by the group comprising a rectangular cross section and a quasi-reαangular cross seαion, said first and second straps having a common origin at said at least one interconneαing conneαion.

20. The ceU of Claim 19 in which said seleαed group of said trawl system is said trawl and said central axis is symmetrical thereof and wherein said ceU performance comprises increasing trawl volume relative to said central axis by said lift veαors.

21. The ceU of Claim 19 in which said seleαed group of said trawl system is said first and second tow Unes and said central axis is central thereof and wherem said ceU performance comprises inαeasing spreading distance therebetween by said lift veαors.

22. The ceU of Claim 19 in which said seleαed group of said trawl system is said frontropes and said central axis is central thereof and wherem said ceU performance comprises increasing volume of a trawl attached thereto by said lift veαors.

23. The ceU of Claim 19 in which said seleαed group of said trawl system is said first and second bridles and said central axis is central thereof and wherein said ceU performance comprises increasing spreading distance therebetween by said lift veαors.

24. The ceU of Claim 19 wherein said first single strap associated with said first ceU bar means is of a left-hand, loosely separated lay relative to said recedmg direction and wherem said second smgle strap associated with said second ceU bar means is of a right-hand, loosely separated lay along said receding direαion

25. The ceU of Claim 24 in which said first single strap associated with first ceU bar means and said second smgle strap associated with second ceU bar means define turns in a pitch range of about 3d to 70d where d is the mean width of said straps.

26. The ceU of Claim 25 in which pitch range is about 5d to 40 d where d is the mean width of said straps.

27. The ceU of Claim 3 wherem said first ceU bar means comprises a first pair of parallel mesh bars associated with a quadratic mesh ceU for use therewith and wherem said second ceU bar means comprises a second pair of paraUel mesh bars also associated with said mesh ceU, said first and second pairs of mesh bars bemg connecting by a plurahty of connecting interseαions including said at least one interconneαing connection, said first pair of paraUel mesh bars each comprismg first and second strands positioned along a first axis of symmetry, at least one which bemg of a left-hand, loosely wound lay relative to central axis, said second pair of paraUel mesh bars each comprismg third and fourth strands positioned along a second axis of symmetry, at least one of which bemg of a right-hand, loosely wound lay relative to a said central axis whereby said leading and trailing edges for said first and second paraUel mesh bars are estabUshed along with separate pressure differentials that provide said Uft veαors relative to said central axis to increase volume of said trawl relative to said central axis

28. The ceU of Claim 27 wherein both said first and second strands are both of a left-hand, loosely wound lay and are construαed to wind uniformly with respeα to said first axis of symmetry in said recedmg direαion and wherem said third and fourth strands are both of a right-hand, loosely wound lay and wind uniformly with respect to said second axis of symmαry in said receding direαion

29. The ceU of Claim 28 in which said first and second strands are each formed of synthetic or natural fibers or filaments and are each internaUy twisted in a left-hand lay relative to said receding direαion, and in which said third and fourth strands are each formed of synthetic or natural fibers or filaments and each are internaUy twisted in a right- hand lay relative to said recedmg direαion

30. The ceU of Claim 28 in which said strands are each itself formed of internal braided synthetic or natural fibers or filaments

31. The ceU of Claim 27 in which said first strand is provided with an internal axis of symmetry comcident with said first axis of symmetry and is positioned in an unwound state relative thereto, said second strand bemg construαed to wmd about said first strand in uniform fashion to provide said left-hand loosely wound lay and in which said third strand is provided with an internal axis of symmetry comcident with said second axis of symmetry and is positioned in an unwound state relative therαo, said fourth strand being construαed to wind about said third strand to provide said right-hand loosely wound lay.

32. The ceU of Claim 31 in which first and third strands are each formed of synthetic or natural fibers or filaments internally braided to form same; in which said second strand is formed of synthetic or natural fibers or filaments internally twisted into a

^"left-hand lay relative to said recedmg direαion; and in which said fourth strand is formed of intemal twisted synthetic or natural fibers having a right-hand lay relative to said recedmg direction.

33. The ceU of Claim 31 in which each strand is formed of synthetic or natural fibers or filaments braided together to form same.

34. The ceU of Claim 31 in which second and fourth strands are each formed of synthetic or natural fibers or filaments internaUy braided to form same; said second strand bemg construαed to wind about said first strand in uniform fashion to provide said left-hand loosely wound lay relative to said recedmg direαion; said fourth strand being construαed to wind about said third strand in uniform fashion to provide said right-hand loosely wound lay relative to said recedmg direαion.

35. The ceU of Claim 34 in which said first and third strands are each formed of internaUy twisted synthetic or natural fibers or filaments; said internal twist of said first strand providing a right-hand mtemal lay relative to said recedmg direction; said internal twist of said third strand providmg a left-hand mtemal lay relative to said recedmg direction.

36. The ceU of Claim 28 in which said first and second strands define turns in a pitch range of about 3d to 70d where d is the diameter of at least the larger of said strands and in which said third and fourth strands of said second ceU bar means define turns in a pitch range of about 3d to 70d where d is the diameter of at least the smaUer of said strands.

37. The ceU of Claim 36 in which said second and fourth strands define turns in a pitch range about 3d to 70d where d is the diameter thereof.

38. The ceU of Claim 36 in which said pitch range is about 5 d to 40d where d is the diameter of at least the smaller of said strands.

39. The ceU of Claim 37 in which said pitch range is about 5d to 40d where d is the diameter thereof

40. The ceU of Claim 3 wherein said first ceU bar means comprises a first pair of paraUel mesh bars that is associated with a mesh ceU for aiding in construαing said trawl and wherem said second ceU bar means comprises a second pair of paraUel mesh bars also associated with said mesh ceU, said first and second pairs of paraUel mesh bars bemg connecting by a plurahty of conneαing interseαions including said at least one interconnecting connection, said first pair of parallel mesh bars each comprising a first smgle strap having a CTOSS seαion seleαed by the group comprismg a rectangular cross section and a quasi-rectangular cross seαion, said second pair of paraUel mesh bars each comprismg a second smgle strap having a cross seαion seleαed by the group comprising a rectangular cross seαion and a quasi-rectangular cross section whereby leading and trailing edges for said first and second paraUel mesh bars are established along with separate pressure differentials that provide Uft veαors relative to said central axis to increase volume of said net, trawl or the like.

41. The ceU of Claim 40 wherem said first single strap associated with said first pair of paraUel mesh bars is of a left-hand, loosely separated twisting lay and wherein said second smgle strap associated with said second pair of paraUel mesh bars is of a right- hand, loosely separated twisting lay.

42. The ceU of Claun 41 in which said first and second smgle straps define turns in a pitch range of about 3d to 70 d where d is the mean width of said strap.

43. The ceU of Claim 42 in which said pitch range is about 5d to 40d.

44. A mesh ceU used in a trawl, net or the like for generating a hydrofoU-Uke effeα during field operations for aiding in capturing marine life in a water-entrained environment, comprismg first and second pah's of mesh bars offsα from a central axis having interconneαing conneαions, said first pair of mesh bars including first and second mesh bars oriented substantiaUy paraUel to each other, each of said first and second mesh bars bemg construαed of at least two strands positioned relative to a first axis of symmetry, at least one of said at least two strands bemg of a left-hand, loosely wound lay relative to a recedmg direαion normalized to said central axis, said second pair of mesh bars including third and fourth mesh bars oriented substantiaUy paraUel to each other but not paraUel with said first pair of mesh bars, each of said third and fourth mesh bars bemg construαed of at least two strands positioned relative to a second axis of symmαry, at least one of said at least two strands being of a right-hand, loosely wound lay relative to said recedmg direction whereby in field operations as said mesh ceU is propeUed through a water-entrained environment, leading and traϋing edges are estabhshed for said first and second pairs of mesh bars along with a composite pressure differential therebetween so that an outwardly extending lift veαor relative to said central axis is easϋy and accurately generated to increase mesh ceU volume.

45. The mesh ceU of Claim 44 wherem said leading edge of each of said first and second mesh bars of said first pah- when normalized to said receding direction, reside at a right side of each of such bars as viewed in said receding direαion and wherem said leading edge of each of said third and fourth mesh bars of said second pair when normalized to said receding direαion, reside along a left side thereof each as viewed.

46. The mesh ceU of Claim 44 wherein said at least two strands of each of said first pair of mesh bars, include a first and a second strand both of which bemg of a left- hand, loosely wound twisting lay relative to said receding direαion and are construαed to wind uniformly with respeα to said first axis of symmetry in said recedmg direction therealong and wherem said at least two strands of each of said second pair of mesh bars, mclude a third and a fourth strand both of which bemg of a right-hand, loosely wound twisting lay relative to said recedmg direαion and wind uniformly with respeα to said second axis of symmetry in said recedmg direαion.

47. The mesh ceU of Claim 44 wherein said at least two strands of each of said first pair of mesh bars, mclude at least a first strand and a second strand, said first strand having an mtemal axis of symmetry coincident with said first axis of symmetry and is positioned in an unwound state relative therαo, said second strand winding about said first strand in uniform fashion to provide said left-hand loosely wound lay relative to said recedmg direction, and wherein said at least two strands of each of said second pair of mesh bars, mclude at least a third strand and a fourth strand, said third strand having an intemal axis of symmαry comcident with said second axis of symmαry and is positioned in an unwound state relative thereto, said fourth strand winding about said third strand in uniform fashion to provide said right-hand loosely wound lay relative to said recedmg direction.

48. The mesh ceU of Claim 47 wherem said at least two strands of each of said first pair of mesh bars mcludes a first additional strand and wherem said at least two strands of each of said second pair of mesh bars mcludes a second additional strand, said first additional strand also winding about said first strand in uniform fashion in a left-hand lay relative to said receding direαion, said second additional strand also winding about said third strand in uniform fashion in a right-hand lay relative to said recedmg direction.

49. The mesh ceU of Claim 48 wherein said second strand and said first additional strand define substantiaUy simϋar turns each to the other but in which said turns of one is diametricaUy positioned about said first strand relative to the other and wherem said fourth strand and said second additional strand define substantiaUy similar turns each to the other but in which said turns of one is diametrically positioned about said third strand relative to the other.

50. The mesh ceU of Claun 46 in which said first and second strands define turns in a pitch range of about 3d to 70d where d is the diameter of at least the smaUer of said strands and in which said third and fourth strands define turns in a pitch range of about 3d to 70d where d is the diameter of at least the smaUer of said strands.

51. The ceU of Claun 47 in which said second and fourth strands define turns in a pitch range about 3d to 70d where d is the diameter thereof

52. The ceU of Claun 50 in which said pitch range is about 5d to 40d.

53. The ceU of Claim 51 in which said pitch range is about 5d to 40d.

54. A mesh ceU used in a trawl, nα or the hke for generating a composite pressure differential during field operations to increase mesh ceU volume for aiding in capturing marine life in a water-entrained environment, comprismg first and second pairs of mesh bars offset from a central axis having conneαing mtersections, said first pair of mesh bars comprismg first and second straps oriented substantiaUy paraUel to each other, said second pair of mesh bars comprismg third and fourth straps oriented substantiaUy paraUel to each other but not paraUel to said first and second straps, said first, second, third and fourth straps each having a cross seαion seleαed from the group comprismg a rectangular cross seαion and a quasi-reαangular cross seαion whereby in field operations as said mesh ceU is propeUed through a water-entrained environment, leading and trailing edges are estabϋshed therefor along with a composite pressure differential therebetween so that an outwardly extending lift veαor relative to said central axis is easUy and accurately generated to increase mesh ceU volume.

55. The mesh ceU of Claim 54 wherem said leading edge of said first and second straps of said first pair when normalized to a receding direαion along each strap, reside at a right side thereof as viewed in said receding direαion and wherem said leading edge of said third and fourth straps of said second pair when normalized to a receding direαion along each strap, reside along a left side thereof as viewed.

56. The mesh ceU of Claim 55 wherem said first and second straps associated with said first pair of mesh bars are of a left-hand, loosely separated twisting lay relative to said recedmg direαion and wherem said third and fourth straps associated with said second pair of mesh bars are of a right-hand, loosely separated twisting lay relative to said receding direαion.

57. The mesh ceU of Claim 56 in which said first, second, third and fourth straps of said first and second pairs of mesh bars each defines turns in a pitch range of about 3d to 70 d where d is the mean width of said straps.

58. The mesh ceU of Claun 57 in which pitch range is about 5d to 40 d where d is the mean width of said straps

59. The mesh ceU of Claim 55 in which each of said first, second, third and fourth straps have a quasi-rectangular cross seαion mclude cambered long side surfaces and rounded short side surfaces in which said cambered long side surfaces are most exterior relative to said central axis.

60. The mesh ceU of Claim 59 in which said each of said first, second, third and fourth straps mclude an mtemal cavity interior of said long and short side surfaces and a plurahty of strands residing in said mtemal cavity.

61. The mesh ceU of Claim 60 in said plurahty of strands residing in each of said mtemal cavities, comprise two in number of equal diameter

62. The mesh ceU of Claim 60 in said plurality of strands residing in each of said intemal cavities, comprise three in number of equal diameter

63. A mesh ceU used in a trawl, net or the like for generating a hydrofoϋ-like effeα during field operations for aiding in capturing marine life in a water-entrained environment, comprismg first and second pairs of mesh bars offset from a central axis having conneαmg mterseαions, said first pair of mesh bars mcludmg first and second mesh bars oriented substantiaUy paraUel to each other, each of said first and second mesh bars bemg positioned relative to a first axis of symmetry and construαed of at least two strands at least one of which being of a left-hand, loosely wound lay relative a recedmg direction normalized to said central axis and defining turns in a range of 3d to 70d where d is the diameter of said at least one strand, said second pair of mesh bars including third and fourth mesh bars oriented substantiaUy paraUel to each other but not paraUel with said first pair of mesh bars, each of said third and fourth mesh bars bemg positioned relative to a second axis of symmαry and construαed of at least two strands at least one of which being of a right-hand, loosely wound lay relative said recedmg direction normalized to said central axis and also defining turns in a range of 3d to 70d where d is the diamαer of said at least one strand whereby in field operations as said mesh ceU is propeUed through a water-entrained environment, leading and trailing edges are estabUshed for said first and second pairs of mesh bars along with a composite pressure differential therebetween so that an outwardly extending Uft veαor relative to said central axis is easϋy and accurately generated to increase mesh ceU volume.

64. The mesh ceU of Claim 63 wherem said leading edge of each mesh bar of said first pair relative to said recedmg direαion normalized to said central axis, reside at a right side thereof as viewed in said recedmg direαion and wherem said leading edge of each mesh bar of said second pair when normalized to a receding direαion, reside along a left side thereof as viewed.

65. The mesh ceU of Claim 64 in which said two strands of each of said first and second mesh bars of said first pair, wmd uniformly about said first axis of symmetry, and in which said two strands of each of said third and fourth mesh bars also both wmd uniformly about said second axis of symmetry.

66. The ceU of Claim 64 in which the other strand of each of said first and second mesh bars is provided with an mtemal axis of symmetry comcident with said first axis of symmetry and is positioned in an unwound state relative therαo, said at least one strand bemg construαed to wind about said other strand in uniform fashion to provide said left-hand loosely wound lay and in which the other strand of each of said third and fourth mesh bars is provided with an mtemal axis of symmetry comcident with said second axis of symmetry and is positioned in an unwound state relative thereto, said at least one strand being construαed to wind about said other strand in uniform fashion to provide said right- hand loosely wound lay

67. A mesh ceU used in a trawl, net or the hke for generating a composite pressure differential during field operations to increase mesh ceU volume for aiding in capturing marine life in a water-entrained environment, comprising a central axis, at least three mesh bars offset from said central axis foπriing sides and a series of associated intersections oriented in space defining a pre-seleαed cross section in a common longitudinal plane also offset from said central axis, a transverse working plane normal to said longitudinal plane that passes through at least two interseαions between a pair of mesh bars, each pair of mesh bars being formed of first and second mesh bars of oppositely but loosely wound strands whereby in field operations as said ceU is propeUed through a water-entrained environment, leading and trailing edges are estabhshed for said first and second mesh bars along with a composite pressure differential therebetween so that an outwardly extending Uft veαor relative to said central axis is easϋy and accurately generated to increase mesh cell volume.

68. The mesh ceU of Claun 67 in which said strands of said first mesh bar are at least two in number in which at least one thereof is of a left-hand, loosely wound lay when view in a recedmg direαion relative to said central axis and wherem strands of said second mesh bar are at least two in number wherem at least one thereof is of right-hand, loosely wound lay when viewed in said receding direαion wherem said leading edge of said first mesh bar when normalized to said recedmg direαion, reside at a right side of each such bar as viewed in said recedmg direαion and wherem said leading edge of second mesh bar of said pair when normalized to a receding direction, reside along a left side thereof as viewed.

69. The mesh ceU of Claim 68 in which said at least one strand of said first and second mesh bars define turns in a pitch range of about 3d to 70d where d is the diamαer of said at least one strand.

70. The mesh ceU of Claim 69 in which both strands uniformly w nd about each other to define said turns.

71. The mesh ceU of Claim 67 in which said cross seαion is rectangular.

72. The mesh ceU of Claim 67 in which cross seαion is triangular.

73. The mesh ceU of Claun 67 in which cross seαion is hexagonal.

74. The mesh ceU of Claim 67 in which said transverse working plane biseαs two intersections of said mesh bars to form an imaginary base and forms a pair of half mesh ceUs each consisting of a pair of oppositely wound mesh bars depending from an interseαion offsα from said base.

75. A mesh ceU used in a trawl, net or the hke for generating a composite pressure differential during field operations to increase mesh ceU volume for aiding in capturing marine life in a water-entrained environment, comprising a central axis, at least three mesh bars offset from said central axis forming sides and a series of associated mtersections oriented in space defining a pre-seleαed cross section in a common longitudinal plane also offsα from said central axis, a transverse working plane normal to said longitudinal plane that passes through at least two interseαions between said first and second mesh bars, each mesh bar defining a single strap defining leading and trailing edges during field operations, said smgle strap defining said first mesh bar bemg twisted in a first direction about its longitudinal axis of symmetry thereof, said smgle strap defining said second mesh bar being twisted a second direαion opposite of said first direction about its longitudinal axis of symmetry whereby in field operations as said mesh ceU is propeUed through a water-entramed environment, a composite pressure differential associated with said leading and trailing edges is estabUshed for said first and second mesh bars so that an outwardly extending lift veαor relative to said central axis is easUy and accurately generated to increase mesh ceU volume.

76. The mesh ceU of Claim 75 wherem said leading edge of said first mesh bar when normalized to a receding direαion relative to said central axis, reside at a right side thereof as viewed in said recedmg direαion and wherein said leading edge of said second mesh bar mesh bar when normalized to said recedmg direαion therealong, reside along a left side thereof as viewed.

77. The mesh ceU of Claun 76 in which said first direαion of twist associated with said single strap constituting said first mesh bar is of a left-hand lay as viewed in said recedmg direction and wherem said second direαion of twist associated with said single strap comprismg said second mesh bar is of a right-hand lay as viewed in said recedmg direction.

78. The mesh ceU of Claim 77 in which said left-hand and right-hand lay direαions of twist associated with said straps comprismg said first and second mesh bars, respeαively, define turns in a pitch range of about 3d to 70d where d is the mean width of said strap.

79. The mesh ceU of Claun 78 in which said cross seαion is rectangular.

80. The mesh ceU of Claim 78 in which cross seαion is triangular.

81. The mesh ceU of Claim 78 in which cross seαion is hexagonal.

82. The mesh ceU of Claim 78 in which said pitch range of said is about 5d to 40d.

83. A towline mterconnecting a trawl, net or the hke with a vessel at the surface of a body of water for generating a hydrofoU-like effect during field operations for aiding in increasing a performance charaαeristic thereof, comprismg first and second ceU bar means offset from a central axis and having at least one mterconnecting intersection therebetween that mcludes a portion of a vessel at the surface of body of water, each of said first and second ceU bar means comprismg a shaped hydrofoU means whereby in field operations as said ceU is propeUed through a body of water, leading and traUing edges are estabhshed for each of said shaped hydrofoU means along with separate pressure differentials that provide lift veαors relative to said central axis to increase towline performance wherein said leading edge for said first ceU bar means when normalized to a recedmg direction relative to said central axis, reside at a right side of said first ceU bar means as viewed in said recedmg direαion and wherem said leading edge of said second ceU bar means when normalized to said recedmg direαion, reside along a left side of said second bar means as viewed.

84. The towline of Claun 83 wherem said shaped hydrofoU means of said first ceU bar means mcludes at least first and second strands positioned along a first axis of symmetry in which at least one strand thereof is of a left-hand, loosely wound lay relative to said recedmg direαion and wherem said shaped hydrofoU means of said second ceU bar mcludes at least third and fourth strands in which one strand thereof is of a right-hand, loosely wound lay relative to said recedmg direαion.

85. The towline of Claim 84 in which said at least one strand of said first and second strands defines turns in a pitch range of about 3d to 70d where d is the diamαer of said one strand.

86. The towline of Claun 85 in which pitch range is about 5d to 40 d where d is the diamαer of said one strand.

87. The towline of Claim 83 wherem said shaped hydrofoU means of said first ceU bar means mcludes a first smgle strap having a cross seαion seleαed by the group comprising a reαangular cross seαion and a quasi-reαangular cross section and wherem said shaped hydrofoU means of said second ceU bar means also mcludes a second single strap having a cross section seleαed by the group comprismg a rectangular cross section and a quasi-rectangular CTOSS section.

88. The towline of Claim 87 wherem said first single strap associated with said first ceU bar means is of a left-hand, loosely separated lay relative to said recedmg direction and wherem said second smgle strap associated with said second ceU bar means is of a right-hand, loosely separated lay relative to said receding direαion.

89. The towline of Claun 88 in which said first smgle strap associated with first ceU bar means and said second single strap associated with second ceU bar means define turns in a pitch range of about 3d to 70d where d is the mean width of said straps.

90. The towline of Claim 89 in which pitch range is about 5d to 40 d where d is the mean width of said straps.

91. Bridle line means interconneαing a towline seleαed from one of a port and starboard towline conneαed to a trawl, net or the like for generating a hydrofoU-like effeα duiing field operations for aiding in increasing a performance charaαeristic thereof, comprising first and second ceU bar means offset from a central axis and defining an intersection with each other and with said seleαed towline at a location below the surface of a body of water, each of said first and second ceU bar means comprising a shaped hydrofoU means whereby in field operations as said ceU is propeUed through said body of water, leading and trailing edges are estabUshed for each of said shaped hydrofoU means along with separate pressure differentials that provide lift veαors relative to said central axis to increase volume of a trawl, net or the like conneCT conneαed to said bridle Ime means wherein said leadmg edge for said first ceU bar means when normalized to a receding direction relative to said central axis, reside at a right side of said first ceU bar means as viewed in said recedmg direαion and wherem said leading edge of said second ceU bar means when normalized to said recedmg, reside along a left side of said second bar means as viewed.

92. The bridle line means of Claim 91 wherem said shaped hydrofoϋ means of said first ceU bar means includes at least first and second strands positioned relative to a first axis of symmαry in which at least one strand thereof is of a left-hand, loosely wound lay relative to said receding direαion and wherein said shaped hydrofoU means of said second ceU bar mcludes at least third and fourth strands positioned relative to a second axis of symmetry in which at least one strand thereof is of a right-hand, loosely wound lay relative to said recedmg direαion.

93. The bridle line means of Claim 92 in which said at least one strand of said first and second strands and of said third and fourth strands define turns in a pitch range of about 3d to 70d where d is the diameter of said one strand.

94. The bridle Une means of Claim 93 in which said pitch range of about 3d to 70d applies to said first, second, third and fourth strands individuaUy where d is the diamαer ofthe smaUer of any one strand.

95. The bridle hne means of Claim 94 in which pitch range is about 5d to 40d.

96. The bridle hne means of Claun 93 in which pitch range is about 5d to 40 d.

97. The bridle line means of Claim 91 wherem said shaped hydrofoU means of said first ceU bar means includes a first single strap having a cross section seleαed by the group comprismg a reαangular cross section and a quasi-reαangular cross section and wherem said shaped hydrofoU means of said second cell bar means mcludes a second single strap having a cross seαion seleαed by the group comprismg a rectangular cross section and a quasi-reαangular cross seαion.

98. The bridle hne means of Claim 97 wherem said first smgle strap associated with said first ceU bar means is of a left-hand, loosely separated lay relative to said receding direction and wherem said second smgle strap associated with said second ceU bar means is of a right-hand, loosely separated lay relative to said receding direαion.

99. The bridle hne means of Claim 98 in which said first smgle strap associated with first ceU bar means and said second smgle strap associated with second ceU bar means define turns in a pitch range of about 3d to 70d where d is the mean width of said strap.

100. The bridle line means of Claim 99 in which pitch range is about 5d to 40 d where d is the mean width of said strap.

101. Frontrope means interconneαing one or more bridle Unes associated with a preseleαed tow line seleαed from one of a port and starboard towline conneαed to a trawl, net or the like for generating a hydrofoU-Uke effeα during field operations for aiding in increasing a performance charaαeristic thereof, comprismg first and second ceU bar means offset from a central axis and defining an interseαion with each other, said mtersection being positioned at a location below the surface of a body of water, each of said first and second ceU bar means comprismg a shaped hydrofoϋ means whereby in field operations as said ceU is propeUed through said body of water, leading and trailing edges are estabhshed for each of said shaped hydrofoU means along with separate pressure differentials that provide Uft veαors relative to said central axis to increase volume of a trawL, nα or the like conneCTed to said breast hne means wherem said leadmg edge for said first ceU bar means when normalized to a receding direαion relative to said central axis, reside at a right side of said first ceU bar means as viewed in said receding direction and wherem said leadmg edge of said second ceU bar means when normalized to said receding direction, reside along a left side of said second bar means as viewed.

102. The frontrope means of Claim 101 wherein said shaped hydrofoU means of said first ceU bar means includes at least first and second strands positioned relative to a

^"first axis of symmetry and in which at least one strand thereof is of a left-hand, loosely wound lay relative to said recedmg direαion and wherem said shaped hydrofoU means of said second ceU bar includes at least third and fourth strands positioned relative to a second axis of symmetry in which at least one strand thereof is of a right-hand, loosely wound lay relative to said recedmg direαion.

103. The frontrope means of Claim 102 in which said at least one strand of said first and second strands and of said third and fourth strands define turns in a pitch range of about 3d to 70d where d is the diameter of said one strand.

104. The frontrope means of Claun 103 in which said pitch range of about 3d to 70d appUes to said first, second, third and fourth strands mdividuaUy where d is the diameter ofthe smaUer of any strand.

105. The frontrope means of Claim 103 in which pitch range is about 5d to 40 d where d is the diamαer of said one strand.

106. The frontrope means of Claim 104 in which pitch range is about 5d to 40 d where d is the diamαer ofthe smaUer of any strand.

107. The frontrope means of Claim 101 wherem said shaped hydrofoU means of said first ceU bar means mcludes a first smgle strap having a cross section seleαed by the group comprising a rectangular cross section and a quasi-rectangular cross section and wherein said shaped hydrofoU means of said second ceU bar means also mcludes a second smgle strap having a cross seαion seleαed by the group comprismg a rectangular cross section and a quasi-rectangular cross seαion.

108. The frontrope means of Claim 107 wherem said first smgle strap associated with said first ceU bar means is of a left-hand, loosely separated lay relative to said receding direction and wherem said second smgle strap associated with said second ceU bar means is of a right-hand, loosely separated lay along said recedmg direction.

109. The frontrope means of Claim 108 in which said first single strap associated with first ceU bar means and said second smgle strap associated with second ceU bar means define turns in a pitch range of about 3d to 70d where d is the mean width of said strap.

110. The frontrope means of Claim 109 in which pitch range is about 5d to 40 d where d is the mean width of said straps.

111. A method of usmg a ceU associated with a trawl system for generating a hydrofoU-hke effect during field operations for aidmg in increasing a performance charaαeristic thereof in a water-entramed environment, comprismg the steps of:

(i) from a vessel positioned at the surface of a body of water, deploying first and second ceU bar means of a trawl system below the surface ofthe body of water wherein a central axis offset from the first and second ceU bar means is estabhshed and the first and second ceU bar means have at least one interconnecting connection therebetween,

(ϋ) estabUshing positional and direαional integrity between the shaped hydrofoU means associated with each ofthe first and second ceU bar relative to the central axis, and

(ϋ) propelling the shaped hydrofoU means of each of the first and second ceU bar means whereby leadmg and trailing edges are estabUshed therefor along with separate pressure differentials that provide lift veαors relative to the central axis to increase ceU performance wherem said leadmg edge for the first ceU bar means when normalized to a recedmg direαion relative to the central axis, always resides at a right side ofthe first ceU bar means as viewed in the recedmg direαion and wherem the leadmg edge ofthe second ceU bar means when normalized to the same receding direction, reside along a left side thereof as viewed.

112. The method of Claim 111 in which step (i) bemg further charaαerized by the first and second ceU bar means being associated with a tow hne selected from one of a port and starboard tow line and the at least one interconneαing connection therebetween is estabUshed at the vessel itself; in which step (ϋ) includes positiomng first and second strands comprismg the hydrofoU means of the first ceU bar means so that at least one strand thereof is positioned along a first axis of symmαry offsα from the central axis wherem at least one of which is of a left-hand, loosely wound twistmg lay relative to a receding direαion estabUshed relative to the central axis and positioning third and fourth strands comprising the said shaped hydrofoϋ means of said second ceU bar along a second axis of symmetry so that at least one of which is of a right-hand, loosely wound twisting lay relative to the recedmg direαion and the central axis; and in which step (ϋi) mcludes the substep of increasing spread between the port and starboard tow Unes relative to the central axis to gam increased ceU performance.

113. The method of Claim 111 in which step (i) bemg further charaαerized by the first and second ceU bar means bemg associated with a port and starboard tow Ime, respectively and the at least one mterconneαmg connection therebetween is estabhshed at the vessel itself; in which step (ϋ) mcludes positioning a first strap comprising the hydrofoU means of the first ceU bar means so that the same is positioned along a first axis of symmαry offset from the central axis wherem the first strap is of a left-hand, loosely wound lay relative to a recedmg direαion established relative to the central axis and positioning a second strap comprising the shaped hydrofoϋ means of the second ceU bar along a second axis of symmαry wherem the second strap is of a right-hand, loosely wound lay relative to the receding direαion and the central axis; and in which step (Ui) includes the substep of increasing spread between the port and starboard tow lines relative to the central axis to gain mcreased ceU performance.

114. The mαhod of Claim 111 m which step (i) being fiirther charaαerized by the first and second ceU bar means bemg associated with a trawl, the central axis bemg longitudinally symmetrical of the trawl and the at least one mterconnecting connection being estabhshed below the surface of the body of water; in which step (ϋ) mcludes positiomng first and second strands comprising the hydrofoU means of the first ceU bar means so that at least one strand thereof is positioned along a first axis of symmetry offset from the central axis wherem at least one of which is of a left-hand, loosely wound lay relative to a recedmg direction estabUshed relative to the central axis, as weU as positioning third and fourth strands comprismg the shaped hydrofoU means of said second ceU bar along a second axis of symmetry so that at least one of which is of a right-hand, loosely wound lay relative to the receding direαion and the central axis; and in which step (iϋ) mcludes the substep of increasing volume of the trawl relative the central axis by the creation ofthe Uft veαors to gam mcreased ceU performance.

115. The method of Claim 111 m which step (i) being further characterized by the first and second ceU bar means being associated with a trawl, the central axis being longitudinaUy symmetrical with the trawl and the at least one mterconnecting connection therebetween bemg estabhshed below the surface of the body of water; in which step (ϋ) mcludes positioning a first strap comprismg the hydrofoϋ means ofthe first ceU bar means so that the same is positioned along a first axis of symmetry offset from the central axis wherem the first strap is of a left-hand, loosely wound lay relative to a recedmg dϋ-ection estabhshed relative to the central axis as weU as positioning a second strap comprismg the shaped hydrofoU means ofthe second ceU bar along a second axis of symmetry offsα from the central axis wherem the second strap is of a right-hand, loosely wound lay relative to the recedmg direction and the central axis; and in which step (ϋi) mcludes the substep of

_^ increasing volume ofthe trawl relative to the central axis by the creation the lift veαors to gain increased ceU performance.

116. The method of Claun 111 in which step (i) bemg further charaαerized by the first and second ceU bar means being associated with a frontrope, the central axis bemg longitudmaUy symmαrical of a trawl to which the frontrope attaches and the at least one mterconnecting conneαion therebetween being estabUshed below the surface of the body of water; in which step (ϋ) includes positiomng first and second strands comprismg the hydrofoU means ofthe first ceU bar means so that at least one strand thereof is positioned along a first axis of symmetry offset from the central axis wherem at least one of which is of a left-hand, loosely wound lay relative to a recedmg direαion estabhshed relative to the central axis, as weU as positioning thud and fourth strands comprismg the shaped hydrofoU means of said second ceU bar along a second axis of symmαry so that at least one of which is of a right-hand, loosely wound lay relative to the receding direction and the central axis; and in which step (ϋi) mcludes the substep of increasing volume of the trawl relative the central axis by the creation of the lift veαors due to the frontrope to gain mcreased ceU performance.

117. The method of Claim 111 which step (i) bemg further charaαerized by the first and second ceU bar means bemg associated with a frontrope, the central axis being longitudinaUy symmetrical of a trawl to which the frontrope attaches and the at least one mterconnecting connection therebetween bemg estabUshed below the surfece ofthe body of water; in which step (ϋ) mcludes positiomng a first strap comprismg the hydrofoU means of the first ceU bar means so that the same is positioned along a first axis of symmetry offset from the central axis wherem the first strap is of a left-hand, loosely wound lay relative to a recedmg direαion estabhshed relative to the central axis as weU as positioning a second strap comprismg the shaped hydrofoU means of the second ceU bar along a second axis of symmetry offsα from the central axis wherem the second strap is of a right- hand, loosely wound lay relative to the recedmg direαion and the central axis; and in which step (ϋi) mcludes the substep of increasing volume ofthe trawl relative to the central axis by the creation the lift veαors due to the frontrope to gam mcreased ceU performance.

118. The method of Claim 111 in which step (i) being further charaαerized by the first and second ceU bar means bemg associated with one of a pair of port and starboard bridles, the central axis bemg longitudinaUy symmetrical of a trawl to which the bridles attach and the at least one mterconneαmg conneαion therebetween bemg estabhshed below the surface ofthe body of water; in which step (ϋ) includes positiomng first and second strands comprising the hydrofoU means of the first ceU bar means so that at least one strand thereof is positioned along a first axis of symmetry offsα from the central axis wherem at least one of which is of a left-hand, loosely wound lay relative to a recedmg dϋ-ection estabUshed relative to the central axis, as weU as positiomng third and fourth strands comprismg the shaped hydrofoU means of said second ceU bar along a second axis of symmetry so that at least one of which is of a right-hand, loosely wound lay relative to the receding direαion and the central axis; and in which step (iϋ) mcludes the substep of increasing volume ofthe trawl relative the central axis by the creation ofthe lift vectors due to the seleαed pair of bridles to gam mcreased ceU performance.

119. The method of Claim 111 which step (i) being further charaαerized by the first and second ceU bar means bemg associated with one of a pair of port and starboard bridles, the central axis bemg longitudinaUy symmetrical of a trawl to which the bridles attach and the at least one interconneαing conneαion therebetween being estabhshed below the surface ofthe body of water; in which step (ϋ) mcludes positioning a first strap comprismg the hydrofoU means of the first ceU bar means so that the same is positioned along a first axis of symmetry offset from the central axis wherem the first strap is of a left-hand, loosely wound lay relative to a recedmg direction estabUshed relative to the central axis as weU as positiomng a second strap comprismg the shaped hydrofoU means ofthe second ceU bar along a second axis of symmetry offset from the central axis wherem the second strap is of a right-hand, loosely wound lay relative to the recedmg direction and the central axis; and in which step (ϋi) includes the substep of increasing volume of the trawl relative to the central axis by the creation the lift veαors due to the seleαed pair of bridles to gain mcreased ceU performance.

120. The mαhod of Claim 111 m which step (i) bemg further charaαerized by the first and second ceU bar means bemg associated with a headrope, the central axis being longitudinaUy symmetrical of a trawl to which the headrope attaches and the at least one mterconnecting connection therebetween bemg estabUshed below the surface ofthe body of water; in which step (ϋ) mcludes positiomng first and second strands comprismg the hydrofoU means ofthe first ceU bar means so that at least one strand thereof is positioned along a first axis of symmetry offsα from the central axis wherem at least one of which is of a left-hand, loosely wound lay relative to a receding direαion estabUshed relative to the central axis, as weU as positioning third and fourth strands comprising the shaped hydrofoU means of said second ceU bar means along a second axis of symmetry so that at least one of which is of a right-hand, loosely wound lay relative to the recedmg dϋ-ection and the central axis; and in which step (ϋi) mcludes the substep of increasing volume of the trawl relative the central axis by the creation of the Uft veαors due to the headrope to gam mcreased ceU performance.

121. The method of Claim 111 in which step (i) being further charaαerized by the first and second ceU bar means bemg associated with a headrope, the central axis bemg longitudinaUy symmetrical of a trawl to which the headrope attaches and the at least one mterconnecting connection therebetween bemg estabUshed below the surfece ofthe body of water, in which step (ϋ) mcludes positioning a first strap comprismg the hydrofoU means of the first ceU bar means so that the same is positioned along a first axis of symmetry offsα from the central axis wherem the first strap is of a left-hand, loosely wound lay relative to a recedmg direαion established relative to the central axis as weU as positioning a second strap comprismg the shaped hydrofoU means of the second ceU bar means along a second axis of symmetry offset from the central axis wherem the second strap is of a right-hand, loosely wound lay relative to the receding direction and the central axis; and in which step (ϋi) mcludes the substep of increasing volume ofthe trawl relative to the central axis by the creation the lift veαors due to the headrope to gam increased ceU performance.

122. The method of Claim 111 in which step (i) being further charaαerized by the first and second ceU bar means bemg associated with a footrope, the central axis being longitudinaUy symmetrical of a trawl to which the footrope attaches and the at least one interconnecting connection therebetween bemg estabUshed below the surfece ofthe body of water; in which step (ϋ) mcludes positioning first and second strands comprismg the hydrofoU means ofthe first ceU bar means so that at least one strand thereof is positioned along a first axis of symmαry offset from the central axis wherem at least one of which is of a left-hand, loosely wound lay relative to a recedmg direαion estabUshed relative to the central axis, as weU as positioning third and fourth strands comprismg the shaped hydrofoU means of said second ceU bar means along a second axis of symmetry so that at least one of which is of a right-hand, loosely wound lay relative to the recedmg direction and the central axis; and in which step (ϋi) mcludes the substep of increasing volume ofthe trawl relative the central axis by the creation of the lift veαors due to the footrope to gam mcreased ceU performance.

123. The method of Claim 111 in which step (i) bemg fiirther charaαerized by the first and second ceU bar means being associated with a footrope, the central axis being longitudinaUy symmetrical of a trawl to which the footrope attaches and the at least one mterconnecting connection therebetween bemg estabUshed below the surfece ofthe body of water; in which step (ϋ) mcludes positiomng a first strap comprismg the hydrofoU means of the first ceU bar means so that the same is positioned along a first axis of symmetry offsα from the central axis wherem the first strap is of a left-hand, loosely wound lay relative to a recedmg direαion estabhshed relative to the central axis as weU as positiomng a second strap comprismg the shaped hydrofoU means of the second ceU bar means along a second axis of symmetry offset from the central axis wherem the second strap is of a right-hand, loosely wound lay relative to the recedmg direction and the central axis; and in which step (ϋi) mcludes the substep of increasmg volume ofthe trawl relative to the central axis by the creation the Uft veαors due to the footrope to gain increased ceU performance.